The Matheson Team is a full-service real estate group serving Scottsdale
and the greater Phoenix Arizona area. We have helped many of our clients
relocate here from out of state, and provide information to help them
acclimate to their new homes in Scottsdale or the Phoenix area. Summer
in the Valley of the Sun usually features temperatures much higher than
other parts of the country, and it can be especially hard on pets new
to the area. As pet lovers, we are pleased to bring you this information
on Summertime Tips for Happy Pets.
Keep your pet indoors, where it is cool. If it is too hot outside for
you, it's too hot for your pet!
NEVER leave your pet in a parked car, even with the windows cracked
open. Here in the Valley, temperatures in a parked car can reach 200
degrees or more in a matter of minutes. If you see a pet in a parked
car, alert store or mall management. Or, you can call 911 to get help
for the animal. In Arizona, it is a criminal offense for anyone who
leaves an animal unattended and confined in a motor vehicle and physical
injury and death is likely to result.
Walk your pet early in the morning, or in the evening when it is cooler.
NEVER walk your pet during the heat of the day. The pavement is hot,
reaching temperatures up to 160 degrees, and it can burn and blister
your pet's paws. If you would not walk on the pavement in your bare
feet, don't let your pet do it!
Don't let your pet overdo it on a hot day. Do not exercise your pet
strenuously avoid extra-long walks, hikes or excessive play. Unlike people, pets cannot speak up when they
need water or a rest.
Both dogs and cats can be the victims of heat stroke. Dogs don't cool
themselves by sweating, as people do, but by panting. Signs of heat
stroke include: excessive salivation, vomiting, glazed eyes, disorientation
and your pet may become agitated or exhausted. Take action at the first
signs of heat stroke by moving your pet to a cool spot - give him some
ice cubes to lick, sponge him down with a cool, wet towel and let him
lie in front of a fan. Then, rush your pet to a veterinarian!
If you must keep your pet outside, make sure there is plenty of shade
and plenty of clean, cool water in a metal spill-proof container. Do
not tether your pet to a stake, or other stationary object. Your pet
may find himself stuck in direct sunlight and be unable to move away.
NOTE: A swimming pool and/or spa is NOT sufficient for drinking water,
and could be dangerous to your pet. You should observe the same caution
with your pet around a pool as you would with your children.
Brush your pet's coat to keep it free of mats. If you shave your pet
or if your dog or cat has white hair, you should talk to your veterinarian
about types of sunscreen you can use to protect against sunburn.
Harmful summer foods: Corn cobs! Dogs cannot digest the cobs and will
need them surgically removed from their stomachs. Also, grapes and raisins,
when eaten in large enough quantities can cause kidney failure in dogs.