Be sure to mark your calendars for the Maine Potato Blossom Festival household pet show on Tuesday, July 15, rain or shine. Registration starts at 5:15 p.m., and at 6, the fun begins. The donation of $5 per entry will benefit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. More on this in future articles.
Our summer is finally here. And we’re sure that many pet owners are excited to enjoy the great outdoors and numerous adventures with their pals. It’s a fun season for activities, both at home or on vacation. But being prepared and proactive with your pet care can save last-minute trips to the animal hospital for an emergency.
The Farmers’ Almanac has predicted that this summer will be hot and sweltering across the United States and Canada. Though here in Aroostook County the number of days that are “hot and sweltering” can basically be counted on one hand, I also know that just this past week we had a 90-degree day that was pretty darned hot. I loved it. My husband, not so much.
But especially for any animals that have to be out in those temperatures, the heat is downright dangerous.
Dogs and cats don’t sweat like humans do, and their fur coats can make even a slightly higher temperature difficult to deal with on their own. Basic common sense tells you never to walk your pets on asphalt, concrete or sand on hot, sunny days. Paws are super sensitive, just like your bare feet. Plan on early morning or later day walks, and try to stick to parks or grassy areas, which are better for your pet.
Here are some other simple tips to help your pet enjoy warm weather.
Keep your pets’ ears dry if they are loving the water. Drying those ears helps to prevent infections.
Always provide shade and fresh clean water.
Dogs and cats are susceptible to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. So, it makes sense to keep them safe and comfortable inside during the hottest parts of the day.
Please don’t take your pets to busy festivals or to fireworks. That is just common sense, but many people don’t understand the stress that the confusion and loud noises cause their beloved pet. Be smart.
And one of the worst things you can do is leave your pet in a hot vehicle. It doesn’t matter if you are going to be just a couple of minutes. Even on cooler days, the temperature can rise to dangerous levels inside a vehicle.
Again, please be smart during the summer heat, and your furry family pet will thank you for being responsible.
Stop by the Central Aroostook Humane Society at 210 Cross St. in Presque Isle and check us out on Facebook.
Please remember to spay and neuter your pets. Enjoy your summer.
Gloria J. Towle is on the Central Aroostook Humane Society board of directors.
