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Greetings!
We've entered a heat wave, and the Fourth of July is right around the corner.
Here are some tips for keeping your pets safe and cool. Also a reminder that our shelter and clinic are CLOSED on July 4. The animals will be cared for (and kept cool).
HEAT SAFETY TIPS:
NO PARKED CARS: NEVER leave pets in parked cars. Temperatures can quickly become fatal. 

HYDRATION: Make sure your pets have access to fresh, cool water at all times. Consider adding ice cubes to bowls. 

AVOID HOT PAVEMENT: Asphalt retains extreme heat. If it's too hot for your hand to touch, it's too hot for their paws. 

EXERCISE: Avoid the midday sun/hottest part of the day. Take them on longer walks in the early morning or evening hours when the temperatures are coolest.

SHADE/AC: Bring pets inside with air conditioning. If they must be outside for a brief period of time, they need ventilation, shade, and plenty of cool water. 

HIGHEST RISK: Dogs with short muzzles like bulldogs can't pant as effectively to cool down. Seniors and overweight pets have a lower tolerance for high temperatures. 

HEAT STROKE: Keep an eye on your pet for these symptoms in hot weather: Excessive panting or difficulty breathing, drooling and thick saliva, weakness, staggering, or collapse, bright red or pale gums, vomiting or diarrhea
JULY 4 SAFETY TIPS:
PET ID AND MICROCHIP: Make sure your pet's ID and microchip are up to date. Pets can be startled by fireworks and if they get loose these steps can help them be found and returned home faster.
CHILL PILLS: If you know your pets are afraid of fireworks, work with your vet to ensure you have access to anti anxiety medication.
PROVIDE A CHILL ZONE: Make sure your pet has a safe, secure place to be during festivities. Maybe it's a closet or another quiet nook. Provide extra water. Play calm music.
HEAT SAFETY: All the tips above apply this weekend.

BBQ SAFETY: Make sure pets don't have access to alcohol or foods that can make them sick.
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