Tips For Dealing With The Summer Heatwave
You can have hot fun in the summertime with your pets, but if the heat is on, your pets may potentially be in danger.
In general, dogs aren’t able to deal with the heat as well as people, that’s mostly because for all intents and purposes they don’t perspire – they pant, Darker colored dogs have a tougher time as do larger dogs.
Here are seven tips for keeping your pets safe this summer:
Dogs Die in Hot Cars
Instances of dogs becoming ill and sometimes dying as a result of literally roasting in hot cars are avoidable. According to the AAA Chicago Motor Club, if it’s 85 degrees outdoors, even when the windows are open a crack, the dashboard can heat up to 170 degrees in less than 15 minutes.
In many states, counties, and cities, it’s actually against the law to keep a pet shut inside a hot car, so the law may be on the side of the good Samaritan. Calling the police may be an option. In some places, this law (like many animal cruelty laws) is more enforced than in others. Certainly, if the car is parked at a store – if more than a few minutes pass, simply fetching the owner can save a dog’s life.
Exercise in moderation
Some dogs play fetch, and simply know when enough is enough; they stop. Others will fetch forever and not know when to stop. It’s your job as an adult to step and say, ‘enough, the game is over.’ This is why an adult in the household needs to be aware of the pets’ activities. If the dogs appear too hot, they probably are.”
For dogs who are out in the yard for an extended period of time – which is not the best idea in the first place – shade and water are absolutely necessary.
If you run with your dog – even a short distance – the best bet is an early morning jog or hit the track after sunset when the temperatures aren’t as hot and the sun isn’t shining. Be sure to bring water for your dog (and for you).
Splash This
Life preservers for dogs are a good idea if you’re on a boat. Just as they save human lives, they may do the same for even good canine swimmers. While many dogs might know how to jump into a pool for a few laps, the problem is getting out of the pool. Also, never allow Pugs, Pekingese, and other swimming impaired dogs near a pool without adult supervision. It’s rare for them to enthusiastically jump in (Labrador style), but they can fall into the pool – and get into trouble very fast.
Cats in Trees
Where’s Sheriff Andy Taylor when you need him? In most places, phone the local sheriff or fire department to fetch a cat up a tree, you’ll only hear a bemused operator ask, “You’ve gotta be kidding?” If you manage to convince emergency personnel to respond, you’ll likely be charged a fee.
Be patient
Veterinary clinics rarely report treating cats who have fallen from trees. Emergency rooms, however, do treat people who have fallen trying to rescue feline friends. Entice kitty with a can of tuna left at lower branches or at the base of the tree; walk away and wait for hunger to overcome fear.
Skunks
Step #1: Get a clothespin – that’s for your nose. Step #2: Scrub your pooch in a solution of one-quart hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup of baking soda, and one teaspoon of liquid dish soap. Step #3: Rinse. Step #4: Scrub the pet again – this time with a solution of half tomato juice and half water as needed. Step #5: Rinse. Step #6: Go to the movies while the odor subsides. Or go back to Step #2 and purchase over-the-counter products available to help fight skunk stench.
Asphalt
Hot asphalt can literally scorch dog paws. Place the back of your hand to the surface (sidewalk or street) for a count of four. If you have to pull your hand away or feel discomfort, do not walk your dog on that same surface.
Rodenticides
Pets who have eaten rodent poison may emit a sour gassy smell, and have sudden muscle tremors or bleeding from the nose or stool. See your veterinarian immediately. It’s very helpful to know exactly what kind of rodenticide your dog has ingested.
