Hot dog days in summer can be harmful to pets

BUTTE – Summer is a great time to enjoy the dog park in Butte, but experts warn that these really hot days can be harmful to your pets and you need to be very careful.

Luka is still getting used to the pond in Skyline Park, but he is sure to help him cool off in this very hot weather. And heat can be dangerous for animals.

“When you’re hot, they’re even hotter because they’re always on and don’t cool off as quickly as people,” said Lynette Hogart, coordinator of Butte Animal Services.

Experts tell people to always have shade and cool water available to their pets when they are outside. Even limited exposure to extreme heat can cause pets to suffer from heat stroke and can kill them. It is therefore important that owners keep a close eye on their pets.

“Always be outside with them, especially in this heat. There’s really no reason to leave her out alone. They’re safer indoors in this weather, ”said Hogart.

Some pet owners have very active dogs, but make sure they stay cool while playing outside.

“Most of the time, when they’re as furry as he is, I just spray him off with water, spray him with the hose and keep him nice and wet. Let him jump in the pond, go swimming in the lake, ”said animal owner Blake Shaw.

Lots of furry friends don’t wear shoes like we do, so put your hand on the sidewalk before walking them on concrete and if it’s too hot for you, it will be too hot for them.

“Remember to exercise in the morning and late at night, leaving them on the grass if possible because the sidewalk heats up so quickly, it’s extremely hot and they can get burned and blow the pads of their paws,” said Hogart.