Hot dogs
This weekend kicks off summer time in Oklahoma, when every day fits into one of two categories: hot or oppressive. So during these warm months, pet owners have to be especially mindful of their animals’ health. Reader Johnna Vogel of Oklahoma City called me Wednesday to point this out, and I think it’s a great time of year to revisit the issue. The ASPCA offers lots of helpful tips for summer animal care, and they even have a special Web page that explains all the concepts in a fun way kids can understand. Here are some of their helpful tips:
- Animals can overheat if they stand on asphalt for too long. They absorb heat through the pads of their feet quickly.
- Heat is hardest on the health of older, overweight or snub-nosed dogs. Keep them inside as much as possible.
- Only use sunscreen or bug repellent that specifically says it’s OK for animals.
- Don’t shave your dog’s hair shorter than 1 inch. They could get sunburned.
- Never leave a pet in a car. The temperature in a car rises about 40 degrees within an hour. (That’s pretty dangerous even in 70-80 degree weather.) Opening the windows and parking in the shade won’t improve the temperature enough to be safe. If you have to leave your pet in the car, carry two sets of car keys with you: one to keep the car and A/C running and another to unlock the car door.
Keep an eye on the forecast, especially this weekend, and enjoy the holiday with your pets!
- Staff Writer Carrie Coppernoll
The photo above shows Kati Gaddis talking to Cheech at the Edmond Dog Park on Wednesday. Photo by Nate Billings, The Oklahoman.
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I also do the same thing with my dog! my dog loves to face into an electric fan or be fanned and I also don’t let my dog eat leftovers or dog food coz my dog doesn’t like it….. my dog eats what we all eat.. lol..even cakes and candies!
oh how i miss my dog very much! i really lover her…