Now that the dog days of summer are here please be extremely cautious as to when and where you take your dog (outside the home) for exercise.
I support several “no kill” SPCA’s in our state. The following article is from a June newsletter. Needless to say, running your dog next to your golf cart or bike is dangerous for your pet...... as well as yourself.
“A sunny, summer day may seem perfect to you for a walk in the park or along a sandy beach, but these kinds of seemingly delightful days can be quickly turn into a medical emergency for playful pets. Even short walks along hot pavement, attending outdoor events and sitting inside automobiles - even with windows open - can quickly lead to deadly heat stroke for pets, who are especially susceptible to it because they lack sweat glands and can only pant to cool down.
Leaving your furry friend in a car, even on an average warm, even cloudy summer day, can put your pet at huge risk of suffering and even death. This is not a new warning, but sadly too many people still don't appreciate how dangerous it can be. The temperature inside a car can soar to 117 degrees within 60 minutes, even when the outside temperature is just 72 degrees. Opening a window or leaving a bowl of water for your pet will make little difference and still leaves them in serious danger of suffering heat stroke. Excessive panting, a rapid pulse, overly red or purple gums, increased salivation and lack of coordination are warnings signs of heat stroke. More severe signs of heat stroke include a pet's reluctance or inability to rise after collapsing or even suffering from seizures, vomiting or diarrhea.”
The following article offers sound advice on recognizing signs of a heat stroke and what you can do to treat your pet should you ever face this medical emergency.
http://www.warreneckstein.com/b/Warn...365897390.html