PHOENIX (AZFamily) — With temperatures reaching the 90s this week, the Arizona Humane Society is warning pet owners to keep their dogs safe during this warm-up.
Responding to an average of 11,000 emergency calls a year, most involving dogs in heat distress. The Arizona Humane Society wants dog parents to remember the following:
- Walk your dog in the morning or evening hours
- If the pavement is hot, make sure your dog is wearing booties
- Keep your dog cool inside your home during peak midday temperatures
- Do not tether your dog outside; make sure there’s water and shade access at all times
Arizona Humane Society’s Kelsey Dickerson said it’s crucial never to leave your dog in the car and be alert for signs of heat distress to avoid emergencies.
“That heat is not only coming from the top, but it’s also coming from the bottom as well, and it’s heating up their internal organs,” Dickerson explained. “So there’s different things you can look out for, such as excessive panting, increased heart rate, glazed eyes, hypersalivation. It could even be throwing up or diarrhea or even passing out, and of course, passing away.”
Dickerson said the humane society responds to many emergency calls involving dogs overheating, burnt paw pads and rescues on the trails.
Knowing many people like to take their dogs on hikes, Dickerson advises pet parents to avoid the trails.
“A lot of the things we’re seeing that are very dangerous and potentially deadly are people taking their dogs out on hikes. We don’t have a lot of trails that are shaded, we don’t have a lot of trails that have access to water, and a lot of them are quite rigorous, even for people. So if you can imagine for our pets, it’s pretty rigorous for them as well,” Dickerson explained.
If your dog goes into heat distress, immediately find an air-conditioned space or shade and always carry water with you. If your dog isn’t cooling down, seek emergency care immediately.
Before taking your dog outside, a good rule of thumb is to test the pavement with your palm. If you can’t keep your hand there for at least seven seconds, the ground is too hot for your pup.
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