Hot Weather Protection

Protecting Your pet from Arizona heat can be a challenge. Read these important keys to keeping your pet safe during the blistering summer months.


WATCH FOR SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE:
 
Rapid panting, hot skin, twitching muscles, a dazed look.  Wrap them in a towel soaked with cool, not cold water. In severe cases, place them in a bathtub.  Heatstroke can be fatal. Get the pet to the clinic as quickly as possible.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET IN A PARKED CAR:

Not even if you crack the windows or park in the shade.  On a 70o day, the car temperature can rise above 150o in minutes.  It’s extremely dangerous and the NUMBER ONE CAUSE OF HEATSTROKE!

KEEP VACCINATIONS UP-TO-DATE:

This is the time when most pets come in contact with other animals at parks, campgrounds, etc.

PROVIDE PLENTY OF FRESH WATER:

Dogs can only sweat through the pads of their feet and by panting.  Evaporation from the wet surfaces of their mouth and nose helps lower body temperature.

STOP EXTERNAL PARASITES BEFORE THEY BITE:

Fleas, ticks, and ear mites thrive in warm, humid environments.  Ask us for the best preventive program for your pet.

AVOID INTERNAL PARASITES:

Be sure your pet has been heartworm tested and is on year-round prevention.
 
WATCH FOR HOT PAVEMENT AND BEACHES:

Sensitive paws burn easily.

FIND A COOL SPOT:

For indoor pets, keep the air circulating with a childproof fan or air conditioner.  Provide shade for outdoor pets. And a gentle sprinkle from a hose is always appreciated.

THE STREETS AREN’T SAFE:

Don’t let your pets roam. Just in case make sure your pet wears an ID tag. Your pet is no match for a car. Also we see many more fight wounds in the summer.


THE YARD ISN’T ALWAYS SAFE EITHER:

Be cautious of pesticides and herbicides.  Read the precautions for lawn chemicals carefully and keep pets away from newly treated yards. If pets come in contact with chemicals, wash their feet, abdomen, & chest thoroughly. 

BRUSH EVERY DAY: 

Frequent brushing provides early warning of parasites and skin infections by lifting the coat, permitting a view of the skin below.

IT’S ALLERGY SEASON:

People sneeze. Pets scratch. Common pet allergies include fleas, pollen, grass, and weeds. If your pet scratches excessively or chews at its paws, bring it in for examination.

WATCH THE EXERCISE AND DIET:

Don’t encourage exercise during the hottest part of the day.  And let them eat less. Overeating can lead to overheating.

NOT EVERY DOG PADDLES WELL:

 Animals in the water for the first time should be eased in, never thrown in or chased in. Don’t let them drink from pools, streams, or the ocean.  And, if they swim, rinse them off.  Salt and minerals can damage a dog’s coat.

SUNBURN IS NOT A FUN DAY AT THE BEACH:

 It hurts. Short haired pets and those with pink skin and white hair are especially susceptible. Limit their exposure.