WINNEMUCCA - Summer is here - fun in the sun. If you and your best four-legged friend will be spending time outdoors there are precautions that should be followed.
If your dog spends his or her days outside, make sure there is plenty of fresh water and a shady spot to rest. A shallow wading pool is a nice option for your dog to cool off in as well. Try to walk your dog in the early morning hours or late evening when it's cool.
Also, walk your dog on grass or the sidewalk instead of the hot asphalt. Please do not leave your dog or any pets in a vehicle, even with the windows down.
Aside from being illegal, a vehicle can become an oven in only a few minutes. Heatstroke is a serious and often fatal result of a dog's exposure to excessive heat. Bottom line: it's our responsibility to keep our pets safe and comfortable. Let's all have a fun safe summer with our four legged friends.
Nevada law was recently revised to make it a misdemeanor crime to leave a dog (or cat) in a vehicle during extreme heat or cold. But by that time, it is often too late. Prevention is a much better avenue. With that thought in mind the Winnemucca Police Department Animal Control would like to present these tips on keeping your pets safe:
•Never, ever leave your pets unattended in an automobile. Even with windows down the interior temperature can soar to deadly levels in minutes. If you love your pet leave it home!
•Hydration is vital. Provide your pet with plenty of fresh water daily. Make sure there's enough water to last the day. If your pet is on a leash make sure the water can be reached if the leash becomes tangled.
•Shade is vital. Dogs need shade and proper ventilation. Shallow wading pools and other efforts can help during extreme heat.
•For long-haired dog breeds never shave the dog completely down. Simply cut the hair to allow about an inch in length for protection from sunburn.
•Keep your dog well groomed by removing all its dead undercoat.
Dogs appreciate an air conditioner, swamp cooler or a fan in the heat of the day just like we do. If your home and lifestyle can accommodate your pet they will definitely appreciate it!
Special attention needs to be paid to elderly dogs and puppies that are at the extremes of health care.
Recognize the signs of heat stroke: Rapid, frantic panting with thick saliva and a bright red tongue. There may be vomiting or diarrhea present. The dog may be staggering or may have become comatose. These are serious, life threatening conditions which require prompt veterinary medical attention. Cool the dog immediately and seek immediate assistance from a trained veterinary medical professional.
A little time spent avoiding the ill effects of the "dog days of summer" will go a long way toward making summer for your pets safer and more enjoyable.
For more information, contact Winnemucca Police Department Animal Control at 623-6403 or by email at wpd51@winnemuccacity.org.
Connie Patterson is the city of Winnemucca's animal control officer.[[In-content Ad]]
