Be a Responsible Pet Owner in the Heat This Summer

Be a Responsible Pet Owner in the Heat This Summer

We hear all the articles on the news about someone leaving their dog or even their baby in the car in 110 degree heat and we shake our heads. Most of these situations turn out really bad and usually fatal. Being stupid and going to prison are unpleasant situations plus the guilt would be unbearable. Sad thing is that this occurs way too often in the US so here are few reminders for us all.

1.    In the summer, do not leave your pets alone in the car…just leave them at home.
Cars can get up to 120 degrees and cause heat stroke or death.

2.   At home, make sure your pets have plenty of water inside and out daily.

3.   Do not leave your pets outside if there is no shade or water nearby.

4.   The asphalt can burn the pads on their feet, so do not take them for long walks in the middle of the day when the blacktop is raging hot.

5.   If they get sick from the heat, you need to cool them down just like we do people. If it happens, you should rush your pet to the vet’s office ASAP. High fever can cause brain damage and or death.

6.   One good way to keep your pet cool is to leave a kiddy pool with a few inches of water in it for them to wade in or even drink if need be. My pets love to go swimming.

7.   You can leave a mister going in your yard to keep them cool while they are outside.

8.   If you have a swimming pool, it is good to teach them how to get out. They must learn where the steps are so they can get out by themselves if they fall in and no one is around.

 (We did this by showing them two or three times and then throwing them in and seeing if they could get out. All 3 of my dogs quickly figured out where to get in and out…… the steps in the shallow end.)

9.   Install a pet door so your pets can go in and out all day long when you are gone.

10.   My suggestion is to keep them inside during the hot times of the day and let them out early in the mornings and early evenings when it cools down.

11.   If you take your dog for a walk or a hike, make sure you carry water for them. I saw some cute little backpacks for dogs which will hold 1-2 water bottles and a bowl so you can stop and pour the water in the bowl. This way it doesn’t get spilled or wasted. I saw them at REI.

12.   The sand at the beach can burn their feet too so if you are walking on the beach, make sure they are in the wet sand.

13.   If you clip your dog down and they have light skin, they can get sunburn just like people. I hate having sunburns so I know it would be so upsetting for my pets.  If they do get a burn, bring them home and soak them in a cool tub of water. Pour some vinegar or milk in the tub to help soothe the pain.

14.     Fourth of July Fireworks: Make sure to keep your dogs inside as the noise and smells can cause a lot of anxiety. Sometimes they get so upset that they will run off or get mad and bite or scratch someone. Leave them at home in a quiet area until the night is over.

These photographs in Loma Linda taken by Kristin Hamilton.

I sell real estate in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties; Redlands, Loma Linda, Highland, Colton, Yucaipa, San Bernardino and other cites too. I am a trained and experienced Short Sale agent. If you are looking for a professional and experienced agent, I am just a click away. Google me at Kristin Hamilton-Real Estate Agent. Homeowners and Buyers both will find my services top notch and successful. Call me to sell your home.

I am waiting for your call! 909-557-6966. Google me at Kristin Hamilton.

My name is Kristin Hamilton and I sell Real Estate. Call me for all your real estate needs.

This post was authored and or picture was taken by Kristin Hamilton. ©2012, All Rights Reserved, This content may not be reproduced or reprinted (Except for ActiveRain Re-blogging) without express written permission of Kristin Hamilton, Keller Williams Realty, Redlands, CA.