We love spending the sunny days of summer outside with our furry friends, but enjoying the hotter weather can be dangerous. As temperatures start to rise, See Jane Walk will pay special attention to our fur friends to understand their limitations and take extra precautions in this warmer weather so our walks continue to not only be fun, but also safe.
While we do not take the dogs into any bodies of water, reminder to stay updated about the amount of algae in Austin lakes.
My personal favorite tip is: Simply touch the pavement with hand for seven seconds. If you can’t hold out for the full five seconds because the surface is too hot, then it’s also too hot for your dog’s paws
Tips for keeping dogs and cats safe in extreme heat:*
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Never leave your pet in a car** On a mild to hot day, temperatures in a closed car (even with the windows cracked) can exceed 120 degrees in minutes, creating a very dangerous condition for any animal. Cracking a window or parking in the shade does not help. **unless you drive a car that has a “leave pet in climate controlled option”
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Give your pet extra water Staying hydrated is crucial on hot days to avoid illness. We will have water on us at all times.
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Protect your pet’s paws from hot surfaces Walk your pet in the grass or the shade whenever possible.
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Don’t overdo outdoor exercise Often times, dogs don’t know when they need a break, so it’s important to stop frequently for shaded breaks and offer plenty of water.
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Take extra care with older dogs and dogs with shorter noses Just like older humans, older dogs can be especially susceptible to higher temperatures. And certain breeds with shorter noses (like pugs and bulldogs) are at a greater risk of heatstroke.
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Apply pet-safe sunscreen to your dog Sunburn can affect pets the same way it affects humans – pain, peeling, and skin cancer. Use a pet-safe sunscreen on unprotected areas, like the tips of the ears, the skin around the lips, and the tip of the nose. A good rule of thumb for sunscreen: If it’s safe for babies, it’s safe for your pets. (We’re happy to apply, if instructed)
*Courtesy of DoveLewis