Pet health is always important. But this time of year, you will want to consider the needs of your pets as the weather gets increasingly warmer. It may only be April, but our hot Arizona summer temperatures are already here, and with them come the need for special care for our pets.
Most of us have heard the dangers of the hot Arizona sun. For both humans and pets, hydration is critical. There are several common mistakes pet owners make including leaving their pet in a hot car. You may legitimately intend to only be gone for a few minutes, but any length of time is too long for a pet to be out in the heat without proper protection and resources. Below, we’ve highlighted a few of the key things to consider this summer when it comes to your pet and the hot sun.
- Water is key. Always provide fresh, clean water for your pet. Dehydration is the quickest way to heatstroke, and it only takes a short time for your pet to feel the stress from the heat.
- Shade matters. If your pet is left outside during the day, always provide an escape from the heat. This can be a patio umbrella, a patio cover or even a dog house. However dog houses can also heat up during the day so find one that has plenty of ventilation.
- Never leave in a car. No matter how quick you think you can be, it’s not quick enough. A car can heat up to over 100 degrees in just a matter of minutes. This can result in a slow and painful death for the animal left inside.
- Walk carefully. Your dog may still love his evening walks, but the sidewalks and streets may still be hot from the sun. Take care to check the temperature of your walking path. You can wait until the surface has cooled down a bit and/or you can put special dog booties on his feet to protect them from burning. If it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot it’s too hot for them.
When it comes down to it, common sense should prevail. Don’t put your pet through unnecessary danger. Always consider what is best for your pet when the hot summer temperatures kick in.
At Anasazi Animal Clinic, pet health is our top consideration. We are committed and passionate about what we do. Contact our team today, and we’ll give you the insight and knowledge you need to make sure your pets have a healthy and happy life all year long.