Owners
Abandon Pets During Summer Months
We have been inundated with local rescues and most of the other rescue groups
across the country are experiencing the same thing. Many people dump their
dogs when they either want to go on vacation or when they move over the summer
months. Too many people have the idea that dogs are disposable rather than
a lifetime commitment!
It is our job as animal lovers to educate people & help those pets in
need...
For the Animals,
Roie
Keep
Your Pets Safe this Summer
Summer is a time for fun and relaxation. Everyone enjoys
walking on the
beach, swimming in the pool, and just spending more time outdoors.
Unfortunately, it can also be a dangerous time of year for pets. You can
help dogs and cats have a great summer by remembering these simple
tips:
NEVER
LEAVE YOUR PET IN A CAR! Parking in the shade and leaving the
windows open is not an option. In a hot car, your pet's temperature can
rise rapidly. It only takes minutes to reach dangerous levels leading to
heatstroke and even death.
Always
make sure your pet has cool, clean water available. Dogs, and
even cats, drink more on hot days, and water warms up quickly.
Some dogs
do not like to swim. Do not force your dog into the water if
he/she is frightened.
If your
dog likes to swim, do not leave him/her unattended. Bathe your
dog afterwards to remove all sand, mud, and chlorine. Also be sure all
pool chemicals are stored safely out of reach.
DO
NOT ALLOW YOUR DOG TO HANG OUT OF THE WINDOW OF A MOVING CAR.
Objects such as rocks or tree limbs could seriously injure your pet, or he/she
might fall or jump out.
DO
NOT ALLOW YOUR ANIMALS TO RIDE IN THE BACK OF A PICK-UP TRUCK.
They could be thrown out, or they may jump out.
Take your
pets inside if there is the possibility of a thunderstorm.
Loud thunder may frighten them, or lightening could strike them.
Do not
walk your dog near fireworks. Besides the obvious danger, the
loud noise can be very scary.
Check
your pet daily for fleas and ticks. Talk to a veterinarian about
preventing these insects from infesting your pet.
Have your
dog checked for heartworm, and administer a heartworm
preventative.
In these
warm summer months it is best to be aware of the signs of heat
stress by exposure to extreme temperatures. Check the animal for signs
of heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness,
excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination,
profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, and
unconsciousness.
If the
animal shows symptoms of heatstroke, take steps to gradually
lower the body temperature immediately as soon as possible.
Move the
pet into the shade or an air-conditioned area.
Apply
ice packs or cold towels to the pet's head, neck, and chest or
immerse her in cool (not cold) water.
Let the
pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.
Take the
pet directly to a veterinarian.
