Pets & Heatstroke

Many pets see a summer car ride as an adventure, but a hot car is no place for a pet. Even if you plan on bringing your pet as you run a quick errand, keep in mind that the interior temperature of a car can quickly surpass 100 degrees, even if the windows are cracked open and the outside temperature is only in the low 70s. Because pets don’t have the means of cooling themselves down the way we do, such high temperatures can cause heatstroke, brain damage, or even death. So keep your pet safe this summer, and never them alone in a car.

 

Heatstroke & Pets

Many pets see a summer car ride as an adventure, but a hot car is no place for a pet. Even if you plan on bringing your pet as you run a quick errand, keep in mind that the interior temperature of a car can quickly surpass 100 degrees, even if the windows are cracked open and the outside temperature is only in the low 70s. Because pets don’t have the means of cooling themselves down the way we do, such high temperatures can cause heatstroke, brain damage, or even death. So keep your pet safe this summer, and never them alone in a car.

Pet Beach Safety

When you and your dog head out for a day at the beach, be sure to take all the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. First, check with local ordinances to ensure that your dog is allowed to visit the beach of your choice, and whether they need to be leashed the whole time. Second, be sure to pack fresh water, food, a blanket, and a sun-shelter that your pet can use. Lastly, don’t forget to bring some toys, like a Frisbee or tennis ball, so the two of you can have some fun together! 

June is National Pet Preparedness Month

As June’s National Pet Preparedness Month nears, ensure pets are included in emergency evacuation plans and safety procedures. With owners caring for pets as true family members, the majority of owners stated they would take their pets with them in the event of a disaster including 76 percent of dog owners and 67 percent of cat owners, according to the American Pet Products Association (APPA) 2011 / 2012 National Pet Owners Survey. The following are helpful preparation tips and products manufactured by APPA members to keep in mind for the whole family should disaster strike.

Stock Food & Water
Ensure pets have a vast supply of food and water to last for at least three days if needed. Non-perishable canned or freeze-dried foods are great to pack up and easy for storing at room temperature. Visit http://stewartpet.com/our-products/freeze-dried-food/ for a selection of easy-to-store freeze-dried foods by Stewart^®.

Provide Fido with Float Gear
In the case of a hurricane or flood, ensure pets remain safe, afloat and visible at all times. Click Fido into a floatation vest and check out http://www.kurgostore.com/products/Surf%252dn%252dTurf-.html for dog life vests, coats and more.

Pack First Aid Essentials
Prepare for any situation with essential first aid items for pets including bandages, antiseptics, and other proper tools. Should a pet need minor wound treatment or stabilizing, be ready to go with a packed first aid kit. Visit www.PawFlex.comfor disposable, tough and fur-friendly bandages.

Ensure Pets are Identifiable
Should a pet get lost in a crowd or separated during the hustle and bustle of an evacuation, ALWAYS ensure pets are easily identifiable and able to be tracked down no matter where you end up. Double check pets are secure with identification tags and all emergency contact information is up-to-date including alternate contact information in case you are forced to evacuate your house. Visit www.PetHub.com for tags with GPS and scanning capabilities.

National Pet Preparedness Month, created by the American Humane Association and Red Star AnimalEmergency Services™, is designed to encourage pet owners to prepare for disasters including pet first aid kits and safety tips. Visit http://www.americanhumane.org/animals/programs/emergency-services/pet-preparedness-month.htmlfor more information. 

June Pet of the Month: Kirby

Kirby Bowden is our Pet of the Month for June. Kirby is an eight year old tri-colored Basset Hound. He was born in Iowa, and he has a big brother, also a Basset Hound, by the name of Barkley. One might describe Kirby as a momma's boy. He's tenderhearted and a little cuddle-bug, but also a bit of a bull in a china shop. Kirby's "special skill" is acting malnourished. He's never met a treat he didn't like. Recently, Kirby became paralyzed in his hind legs. He is on the road to making a full recovery with the help of his friends at Brandt Veterinary Clinic. Kirby continues to inspire us, and gives hope to those who are going through similar hardships to never give up.