Hot Weather Tips

Before you know it, summer and increased temperatures will engulf the Valley. Here are some hot weather tips to keep your beloved pets safe. A good rule of thumb is if it is too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.Never leave a pet in a car on a hot day, even if parked in the shade. Temperatures in cars rise within in a matter of minutes. Leaving an animal in a car could cause heat stroke and/or death.Keep pets in areas with access to shade and fresh water. Provide a cool place for them to rest such as a kiddie pool filled with water under a spot of shade, wet down the ground where they like to lay or moisten a towel for them to lie down on. Also, make sure they have access to fresh water at all times. Keeping their water dish in a shaded place is best.Hot concrete and asphalt burns paws. Check before you walk your pet by pushing the back side of your hand on the ground for 7 seconds. If it is too hot for you to stand, then it’s too hot to walk your pet.If your pet has a longer coat, trim it. DO NOT SHAVE IT. Coats provide protection from sun.Recognize the signs of heat stroke. Signs of heatstroke include: collapse, body temperature of 104+, bloody diarrhea or vomit, seizures or coma, difficulty breathing, increased heart rate and salivation.Do not exercise pets when it’s hot outside. If you have a working pet provide plenty of rest periods. Exercise your pets during the coolest part of the day (early morning and later evening).