Warm Weather Safety Dog Walker Dallas
Warm weather is upon us and Summer is approaching! Being a dog walker in Dallas, there are safety precautions I take as well as suggest. The following is a list of warm weather safety tips everyone can use followed by the signs of heat exhaustion and what to do.
Vet Visit
Plan a visit to your vet for an early Summer check-up. In Dallas, heartworms are a year-round problem, so this is a good time to stock up on heartworm preventative as well as flea and tick medications.
Fresh Water
Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water. Change the water often in the warmer months, your pet may be a little thirstier thus emptying the water bowl frequently. Fresh water is always a must but keep a closer eye on it when it is hotter out. When walking your dog, bring a small bowl and bottle of water for the both of you. Your pup needs a refresher while walking just like you do!
Parked Car – Big No-No!
Never ever leave your pet unattended in a parked car, ever. Let me repeat that: NEVER leave your pet in a parked car, it can be deadly. It only takes a short time for the temperature inside the car to reach dangerous levels. Even in 70-degree weather temperatures in a car with the windows cracked can reach stifling levels very quickly. (See graphic below.) If in doubt, just leave your pet at home. It is better safe than sorry when it comes to our fur babies!
Pool/Lake
Never leave your pet unsupervised at a pool. Not all dogs can swim and likewise, not all dogs want to swim. Do not force your dog into the pool if they are scared and do not want to go in. Always keep an eye on your pup when near the water, accidents can turn tragic.
Walks
Here in the Dallas area, we have lots of concrete and asphalt that get extremely hot on sunny days so be alert when walking your dog. Stay off potentially hot surfaces all together. Professional dog walkers keep these things in mind and take precautions. For instance, taking walks in the morning or early evening when the temp is cooler; taking shorter walks; walking on cooler surfaces like grass and turf; and some dogs even wear protective booties!
Lawn and Garden Chemicals
Warmer temperatures mean gardening! Those chemicals for weeds and pests can be dangerous to your pets. Keep them out of reach and keep pets out of the areas where rodenticides and other pesticides may be sitting out.
Signs of Heat Stroke and What To Do
- Excessive Panting
- Drooling/Salivating
- Excessive Thirst
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Lethargy/Weakness
- Vomiting
- Difficulty Breathing
- Dark Red or Purple tongue
- Collapse
- Temperature at or Above 104-degrees (102-degrees in normal)
In the case of heat exhaustion, it is important to act fast. When the body temperature reaches 106 – 108-degrees, organ damage can occur. First, move the pet to a cooler area in the shade or, preferably, into air conditioning. Then apply ice packs, cold wet towels, and/or cool water (not cold water) to the head, neck, and chest areas, as well as on the paw pads. If possible, immerse the pet in cool (not cold) water. Once stable, transport to the vet.
As pet owners in a hot climate such as Dallas, TX, we must be aware of the dangers our pets may face when temperatures are high and to be prepared. A little advanced planning by you or your dog walker will go a long way.
Call Exceptional Pet Sitting for all your pet care needs!
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