Arizona is HOT! Of course all natives and frequent travelers know this, but many new tourist and re-locator’s don’t know what they’re in for. There are several things that we need to do for ourselves to stay cool and hydrated, but what about our pets?
Thousands of us have pets and we are used to our routine. We feed them, fill up the water, maybe leave the TV on and head to work. If you’re a dog lover we may even be giving frequent walks. In Arizona summer’s we may need to adjust our routines. For example, if the pavement is too hot for you to stand on barefoot, it is too hot for your pet! Those walks may need to be cut out during the summer, the air may need to be left on and extra water bowls need to be left out.
Here are a few other tips to help keep your pet safe during our Arizona summer:
- Protect your pet’s paws. If you have to talk your pet out for a walk, make sure there paws are covered with booties or pet-shoes.
- Do not leave your pet inside the hot car or let them ride in the bed of the truck.
- Cut back on exercise. Pets are loyal and they will collapse before giving up running aside you. Heatstrokes are common in Arizona, try to keep the exercise in your home.
- Keep an eye out for them around the pool. Swimming is one of the best things to do for exercising your pets in the summer, just make sure they are able and know how to get out. You can even buy them a lifejacket.
If you are concerned about your pet’s health please seek your vet or nearest emergency animal hospital. Please, if you see a stray in need call the Arizona Humane Society and an Emergency animal Medical Technician will come to the scene.
