Pets rescued: 2008 Floods,Tornados,Earthquakes,Fires

This year, we've learned about truly cataclysmic disasters—an earthquake in China and a cyclone in Myanmar. But we've also had quite a series of events here in the United States, fortunately though without the large loss of life that we've seen internationally. But the fires, tornadoes, and floods have wreaked havoc in the U.S., and required a robust HSUS response.The HSUS Emergency Services group has been on the road and in the field throughout the year, and now our full team is deployed to Iowa, where the floods are the worst in decades. It's a serious situation—for people and for animals. Here's Senior Director Scotlund Haisley's firsthand account from the floodwaters.

In the face of torrential floodwaters and looming tornado warnings, our team fanned out. We advanced into the watery no-man’s land to rescue animals left behind. As soon as we drove our convoy of specially equipped emergency response vehicles into the ravaged city of Cedar Rapids, residents greeted us with applause and hugs—immediately followed by desperate pleas for the rescue of their stranded pets.

Even with hundreds of rescue requests flowing in, I was especially struck by the innocent plea of one little boy who was unconcerned with the fate of his video games or toys, but only longed for the safe return of his beloved dog and cat. It was an extremely rewarding experience to witness the little boy reunited with his rescued pets the very next day. His tears of joy will stick with me through the difficult days ahead. As of dawn today, dozens of pets had been reunited with their families and 508 were being housed and cared for by our shelter coordination team at the emergency shelter set up at the Kirkwood Community College.

Housing these animals is no small feat, and I have to give a big thank you to United Animal Nations, PetSmart Charities, the Humane Society of Missouri, Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids Animal Control, Cedar Valley Humane Society and local area volunteers for helping to comfortably shelter the displaced animals. I am constantly struck by the resilience and compassion of people who put aside their own worries to come to the aid of the animals. Their dedication is truly inspiring.

Our Animal Rescue Team has been put to the test, with more than 100 rescue requests pending and 50 or so additional calls coming in daily. So many families are desperately seeking their animal companions that we have stepped up our water rescue efforts—more than doubling our presence over the past three days. The variety of rescues that we performed in the last 24 hours was amazing—we used a long-reach ladder to save two abandoned dogs from a second story apartment, searched flooded homes high and low for stranded cats and dogs, and even saved a floundering carp on the water-clogged streets. These were all successful, but the most memorable mission of the day had to be the 12-story assisted living building where we searched each of the 198 rooms for any pets in need of rescue.

The sweltering building had been shut up for several days without electricity—creating a potential death trap. The filth left behind by the floodwaters and the heat was suffocating, but in collaboration with the Humane Society of Missouri we checked every room. Five rescue teams saved 125 animals in a single day.

Floods are a drawn-out ordeal for humans and their animal companions. People are unable to reach home to see if their pets survived, and their pets are incapable of understanding why they are left stranded. It may sound soupy, but there is no feeling in the world like bringing a tail-wagging dog home to a young boy with tears in his eyes.

The Crisis of Pet Overpopulation

Every day in the United States, thousands upon thousands of puppies and kittens are born because of the uncontrolled breeding of pets. Add to that number the offspring of stray and abandoned companion animals, and the total becomes even more staggering. Every year, between six and eight million dogs and cats enter U.S. shelters; some three to four million of these animals are euthanized because there are not enough homes for them.

Too many companion animals competing for too few good homes is the most obvious consequence of uncontrolled breeding. However, there are other equally tragic problems that result from pet overpopulation: the transformation of some animal shelters into "warehouses," the acceptance of cruelty to animals as a way of life in our society, and the stress that caring shelter workers suffer when they are forced to euthanize one animal after another. Living creatures have become throwaway items to be cuddled when cute and abandoned when inconvenient. Such disregard for animal life pervades and erodes our culture.

Abandoned and stray companion animals who survive in the streets and alleys of cities and suburbs pose a health threat to humans and other animals. Homeless companion animals get into trash containers, defecate in public areas or on private lawns, and anger citizens who have no understanding of their misery or their needs. Some of these animals scare away or prey upon wildlife—such as birds—or frighten small children.

The public health epidemic of dog bites—which number more than 4.5 million each year—is due in part to uncontrolled breeding of pets. Bites by so-called dangerous dogs have drawn an enormous amount of media attention, and fatalities caused by dangerous dogs are a serious concern. Often, the vicious tendencies found in some dog breeds can be attributed to irresponsible breeding without regard for temperament. Neutering can help reduce this aggressive behavior.

Clearly, pet overpopulation is not just a problem for the animals or for the shelters involved. Each year communities are forced to spend millions of taxpayer dollars trying to cope with the consequences of this surplus of pets. These public costs include services such as investigating animal cruelty, humanely capturing stray animals, and sheltering lost and homeless animals.


The solution can be simply stated. Its implementation, however, requires sweeping efforts from a variety of organizations and people, including you.
The solution is this: only by implementing widespread sterilization programs, only by spaying and neutering all companion animals, will we get a handle on pet overpopulation. Consider the fact that in six short years, one female dog and her offspring can give birth to hundreds of puppies. And, in seven years, one cat and her young can produce hundreds of kittens.
Given these high reproductive rates, it stands to reason that, in only a few years, carefully planned and implemented sterilization programs could produce a dramatic reduction in the number of unwanted companion animals born. In fact, in those towns and cities that have implemented such programs, we've already seen the number of companion animals who had to be euthanized decline by 30 to 60 percent—even in those communities where human populations have been steadily increasing.

But these programs don't create themselves. They require the planning and coordination of many people. Successful pet population control programs range from subsidized sterilization clinics to cooperative efforts involving local veterinarians to mass media educational campaigns. Only through the continued nationwide establishment of such programs will we bring an end to the tragedy of pet overpopulation.
Community-Based Solutions

Legislation can have the most direct impact simply by requiring that every pet adopted from a municipal or county shelter be sterilized within a certain period of time. Similarly, differential-licensing laws—laws that substantially increase license fees for pets who have not been spayed or neutered—give owners an incentive to sterilize their pets.
Education, too, is an essential part of solving this problem. Unless people know the facts about pet overpopulation and sterilization, they are virtually helpless to do anything about the problem.

Reduced spay/neuter fees play an important role as well. Subsidized spay/neuter clinics and programs in some communities have already helped bring down the cost of sterilization. In areas where veterinarians have agreed to reduce their spay/neuter fees, we've seen a significant decline in the number of animals euthanized.

Finally, pet owners can do their part by having their companion animals spayed or neutered. This is the single most important step you can take. Have your pet sterilized so that he or she does not contribute to the pet overpopulation problem, and adopt your next pet from an animal shelter.

Emergency Pet Preparedness

Emergencies come in many forms, and they may require anything from a brief absence from your home to permanent evacuation. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe. The best thing you can do for yourself and your pets is to be prepared.
Step 1 Get a Rescue Alert Sticker This easy-to-use sticker will let people know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers, and that it includes 1) the types and number of pets in your household; 2) the name of your veterinarian; and 3) your veterinarian's phone number. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write "EVACUATED" across the stickers.
To get an emergency pet alert sticker for your home, please fill out our online order form; please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Your local pet supply store may also sell similar stickers.
Step 2 Arrange a Safe HavenArrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. Remember, if it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. They may become trapped or escape and be exposed to numerous life-threatening hazards. Note that Red Cross disaster shelters will not accept pets because of health and safety regulations, so it is imperative that you have determined where you will bring your pets ahead of time:
- Contact your veterinarian for a list of preferred boarding kennels and facilities. - Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets. - Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets. - Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet.
Step 3 Emergency Supplies and Traveling Kits Keep an Evac-Pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry. Items to consider keeping in or near your pack include:
- Pet first-aid kit and guide book (ask your vet what to include, or visit the ASPCA Store to buy one online)- 3-7 days' worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food (be sure to rotate every two months)- Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans are perfect) - Litter or paper toweling - Liquid dish soap and disinfectant- Disposable garbage bags for clean-up- Pet feeding dishes - Extra harness and leash (Note: harnesses are recommended for safety and security)- Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.) - Bottled water, at least 7 days' worth for each person and pet (store in a cool, dry place and replace every two months) - A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet - Flashlight - Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet) - Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters)- Especially for cats: Pillowcase or EvackSack, toys, scoopable litter- Especially for dogs: Long leash and yard stake, toys and chew toys, a week's worth of cage liner.
You should also have an emergency kit for the human members of the family. Items to include: Batteries, duct tape, flashlight, radio, multi-tool, tarp, rope, permanent marker, spray paint, baby wipes, protective clothing and footwear, extra cash, rescue whistle, important phone numbers, extra medication and copies of medical and insurance information.
Step 4 Choose “Designated Caregivers”This step will take considerable time and thought. When choosing a temporary caregiver, consider someone who lives close to your residence. He or she should be someone who is generally home during the day while you are at work or has easy access to your home. A set of keys should be given to this trusted individual. This may work well with neighbors who have pets of their own—you may even swap responsibilities, depending upon who has accessibility.
When selecting a permanent caregiver, you’ll need to consider other criteria. This is a person to whom you are entrusting the care of your pet in the event that something should happen to you. When selecting this "foster parent," consider people who have met your pet and have successfully cared for animals in the past. Be sure to discuss your expectations at length with a permanent caregiver, so he or she understands the responsibility of caring for your pet. Click here for information about pet trusts.
Step 5 Evacuation PreparationIf you must evacuate your home in a crisis, plan for the worst-case scenario. If you think you may be gone for only a day, assume that you may not be allowed to return for several weeks. When recommendations for evacuation have been announced, follow the instructions of local and state officials. To minimize evacuation time, take these simple steps:
- Store an emergency kit and leashes as close to an exit as possible. - Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Your pet's ID tag should contain his name, telephone number, and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to write your pet's name, your name and contact information on your pet's carrier.- The ASPCA recommends microchipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification. A microchip is implanted in the animal's shoulder area, and can be read by scanner at most animal shelters. - Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis. Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the danger zone at the first sign of disaster.
Step 6 Geographic and Climatic Considerations Do you live in an area that is prone to certain natural catastrophes, such as tornadoes, earthquakes or floods? If so, you should plan accordingly.
- Determine well in advance which rooms offer safe havens. These rooms should be clear of hazards such as windows, flying debris, etc. - Choose easy-to-clean areas such as utility rooms, bathrooms, and basements as safe zones. - Access to a supply of fresh water is particularly important. In areas that may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks ahead of time to ensure that you have access to water during a power outage or other crises. - In the event of flooding, go to the highest location in your home, or a room that has access to counters or high shelves where your animals can take shelter.
If emergency officials recommend that you stay in your home, it's crucial that you keep your pets with you. Keep your Evac-Pack and supplies close at hand. Your pets may become stressed during the in-house confinement, so you may consider crating them for safety and comfort

Selecting the family pet

Select" is defined in the dictionary by such phrases as "a preferred choice" or "carefully chosen". Selecting the family dog should be a well-researched and carefully soul-searched activity. Are you and your family willing to make a 10 - 15 year commitment to this sentient being in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer, for as long as all shall live? Let's pose some of the questions family members should discuss before obtaining a dog.

How Old Are the Members of My Family?
If the youngsters in your household are under seven years old, they are usually not developmentally suited for puppies 5 months old and under or toy-sized (under 15 pounds) dogs of any age. Puppies have ultra sharp "milk teeth" and toenails and often teethe on and scratch children, resulting in unintentional injury to the child. The puppy becomes something to be feared rather than loved.

Toy dogs are fine-boned, touch-sensitive creatures that do not weather rough or clumsy handling well. They break relatively easily and are quicker to bite than their larger boned, mellower relatives.

Unless your children are unusually sensitive, low-key, respectful individuals, a medium-to-large sized dog over 5 months old is usually the safer choice. Regardless of size, all interactions between small children and dogs should be monitored by a responsible adult. When there is no one to watch over them, they should be separated.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, are there frail elderly or physically challenged individuals in the household? If so, strong vigorous adolescent dogs are not a wise idea. No aging hips or wrists are safe from these yahoos. People who were one-breed fans throughout their lives may one day find that their favorite breed demands more than they can physically handle. The new dog must fit the current physical capabilities of his keepers with an eye toward what the next 10-15 years will bring.

Who Will Be the Dog's Primary Caretaker?
A decade or so back, this was an easy question to answer-- Mom. She stayed home and cooked, cleaned and raised the family dog. Most families these days do not have that option. All adults have to go to work and the kids head off to school. This leaves the family dog to be sandwiched in between lessons and sports and household chores and so on. One parent should be designated Primary Caretaker to make sure the dog does not get lost in the shuffle.

Some parents bow to the pressure their children put on them to get a dog. The kids promise with tears in their eyes that they will religiously take care of this soon-to-be best friend. The truth of the matter is, during the 10 - 15 year lifespan of the average dog, your children will be growing in and out of various life stages and the family dog's importance in their lives will wax and wain like the Moon. You cannot saddle a child with total responsibility for the family dog and threaten to get rid of it if the child is not providing that care. It is not fair to child or dog.

Choosing the family dog should include input from all family members with the cooler-headed, more experienced family members' opinions carrying a bit more weight. The family dog should not be a gift from one family member to all the others. The selection experience is one the entire family can share. Doing some research and polling each family member about what is important to them in a dog will help pin down what you will be looking for. Books like Daniel Tortora's THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU or The ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs can be tremendously helpful and can warn you away from unsuitable choices for your family's circumstances.

How Much Can I Spend?
The price to obtain a dog runs the gamut from free-to-a-good-home to several thousand dollars. It does not always hold true that you get what you pay for. The price you pay in a pet shop is usually 2 to 3 times higher than what you pay a reputable breeder for a puppy of similar (or usually better) quality.

Too many folks spend all their available cash on a pet shop purchase and then have no money left for initial veterinary care, a training crate or obedience classes--all necessary expenses. Remember, the purchase price of a dog is a very small part of what the dog will actually cost. Save money for food (especially if it is a large or giant breed), grooming such as Poodles, Cockers, and Shih Tzus need to be clipped every 4 to 6 weeks), chew toys (the vigorous chewers like a Bull Terrier or Mastiff can work their way through a $8.00 rawhide bone in a single sitting), outerwear (short-coated breeds like Greyhounds, Chihuahuas, and Whippets must have sweaters and coats in the winter or in lavishly air conditioned interiors), and miscellaneous supplies (bowls, beds, brushes, shampoos, flea products, odor neutralizers for accidents, baby gates, leashes, collars, heartworm preventative etc.).

And then, there is the veterinary emergency! Very few dogs live their entire lives without at least one accident. Your puppy eats a battery or pair of pantihose, your fine-boned toy breaks a leg, your big boy has bad hips, your dog gets hit by a car or beaten/bitten by the neighborhood bully. These surprises can cost $500 or more. Unlike our children, most of our dogs are not covered by health insurance.

But "How much can I spend?" is not only a question of money. How much time and energy can you spend on a new dog? Various breeds and ages of dog make different demands on our precious spare time. In general, the Sporting, Hounds, Herding, and Terrier breeds will demand more time in training and daily exercise than will the Guardian or Companion breeds. A puppy or adolescent will need more exercise, training, and supervision than will an adult dog. And the first year with any new dog regardless of age or breed type will put more demands on the owner than any other time, for this is when you are setting up house rules and routines which will last for the lifetime of your dog.

America has become a nation of disposable pet owners. Doesn't your family pet deserve better? Choose wisely, for when the bond breaks, everybody concerned suffers. Make selecting your new family pet a life-affirming act.

Fostering Pets:

"Why do you foster?" "How do you find the time?" "How do you choose the right animal?" "How do you know if they'll get along with your pets?" "How do you keep from getting attached?"
Fostering a dog, cat, rabbit, horse or any other animal in need of shelter, love and guidance is a time-consuming effort, but it's also one of the most rewarding ways to help homeless pets. Providing a "stepping stone" for animals in search of permanent homes saves lives, alleviates the strain on animal shelters, helps set the stage for successful adoptions, and teaches you the skills that will enable you to help other animals in need. I have found that dogs and cats who are fostered in positive, nurturing environments by people with basic training and behavior knowledge are more likely to be adopted; less likely to be returned to the shelter; less likely to suffer from behavior and training problems; and less stressed and more able to adapt to life in their new homes.

With that sort of introduction, you may have already picked up the phone to call your local shelter or rescue group to ask about fostering. But as with adoption, the decision to foster shelter pets is not one to be made lightly. If you’re considering taking a foster pet into your home, first investigate your local shelter's fostering policies and application requirements; then ask yourself these important questions.

Does Fostering Fit Your Household and Your Life?The health and welfare of all individuals in your home—human and animal—must be considered before bringing another creature into the mix. Fostering a homeless pet should never be considered unless your home environment is happy, safe, healthy and spacious enough to nurture the foster pet adequately and retain sanity among the existing members of your home. If any of your family members are contending with allergies, excessive stress, other physical or mental health issues, career instability, financial difficulties or housing or space restrictions, fostering is not a good option for you at this time.But if you believe you have the ability to foster, and the entire household agrees that fostering would be a positive experience, your next question should be "Do I have the time?"Fostering a shelter pet is a 24/7 job. Although you may not be physically interacting with the animal every second of the day, you will be responsible round the clock for the pet's safety, comfort, and general well-being and this responsibility alone can be exhausting.If your work or family schedule is already so hectic that adding another time-consuming responsibility will only create more stress, do not consider fostering at this time. If that new foster dog will spend long periods of time in his crate—periods that frequently approach or exceed the eight-hour threshold—or if you've killed your umpteenth houseplant because you just haven't had time to water it, you'll want to put those foster dreams on hold for now.The amount of personal attention needed will vary greatly from ani¬mal to animal, but you can expect to spend anywhere from three to seven hours a day interacting with a foster pet, and even more if you're planning to foster puppies or kittens. Teaching dogs or cats the lessons they will need to become happy, thriving, lifelong members of another family is the essence of fostering, and this takes time and patience. What Kind of Foster Animal Would Be Best for Your Family?If you and your family feel you have the time and ability to provide a dog or cat with the socialization, exercise, positive stimulation, supplies, regular feedings, health care, vet care and training she needs to become a happy, healthy addition to someone's home, you next need to ask yourself, "Who do I want to foster and why?"Any animal considered for fostering should be healthy, fully vaccinated, behaviorally sound and disease-free (unless you are specifically fostering heartworm-positive dogs, feline leukemia-positive cats, or other "special needs" animals). But those are not the only considerations, foster dogs who are known to be non-aggressive with other animals or children and who do not possess a high prey drive. (In general, this is the type of dog I recommend others foster as well. Minor behavior problems such as separation anxiety and house-training issues can usually be addressed with a little time, effort and knowledge, but aggression issues should be left to the experts.) Also, because most of the shelters and rescue organizations can easily find homes for purebred and small dogs—and even have waiting lists of people eager to adopt them. (You might want to talk to your shelter about which sorts of dogs are most likely to get passed over.) Look for those with wonderful temperaments who have excelled on their behavior evaluations but might otherwise be passed by due to looks, breed or color. Hence, many of the foster dogs tend to be Lab or shepherd mixes between 1 and 3 years old—the period when they are most likely to be surrendered.Other foster families prefer to take in specific breeds or certain kinds of animals—female cats, orange tabbies or whatever seems to work best for them, their human families, and the pets they already have. It's important to do the research before you bring an animal into your home. For instance, if your family is not very active, a young, energetic border collie probably isn't the dog for you.Remember, fostering does not work if it's stressful for anyone involved, including other pets. If bringing a young puppy or kitten into your home stresses out your animal family members or puts any of them in danger, you may need to reconsider what types of animals you foster—or even reconsider fostering altogether. Saving one animal"s life while jeopardizing or reducing the quality of another's isn't justified. Are You Prepared to Say Goodbye? Some foster dogs are with you for days; some are with you for months. And yes, there have been one or two who have just fit so well into our lives, our hearts and our home that they have attained status as one of our permanent pets.

It's important to remember, however, that fostering should not be viewed as a "trial adoption." Anyone who fosters must be realistic about the expected outcome: that the animal will be adopted by another family. While it is impossible not to become attached to a sweet dog or cat living in your home, it's necessary to keep your original goals in mind and remain committed to finding the animal a new family every day, plan activities solely for your own pets. Not only does this soothe relations between the temporary and permanent members of the family; it also helps me keep "my pets" mentally separated from "my foster pets" so the level of attachment I experience with both sets of pets remains different, and the line between the two does not become blurred.I have met foster families who became too emotionally attached to part with their foster pets, even when great homes were available and waiting. Think of it this way: For each pet who is adopted by his foster family, one fewer "foster opportunity" exists, which translates into fewer animals being given a wonderful chance at life in a real home. If you find it hard to say goodbye, imagine how happy your foster pet will be in his or her new home.

Stop Animal Abuse

America has become a nation of disposable pet owners. Doesn't your family pet deserve better? Choose wisely, for when the bond breaks, everybody concerned suffers. Make selecting your new family pet a life affirming act.

All pets need love and a good home, this website is designed to help animals who can't help themselves. We are new but hope to make a difference in the care, housing, fostering, and adoption of pets all over the world.

Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for animal abuse, but there are so many things we can all do to help. None of them will make animal abuse disappear tomorrow, but every little bit helps lower the risk further down the road. And you don't have to be an animal "fanatic" to do it. You don't have to be a member of every animal rights organization on earth. There are so many things "regular"people can to do to have an impact...

Take care of the animals you have, and encourage others to do the same...
For the most part, many people's hearts are in the right place when it comes to their pets, they simply don't know all the facts. In educating people about how to better care for their own animals, we hear many of the same excuses, and they don't even *realize* that they are inadvertently putting their animals at greater risk, because no one has ever explained it to them. So the first part is to get involved enough to educate yourself. Then you can begin educating other people.

Sarah McLachlan Animal Cruelty Video

Summer Safety tips for your Pet

Summer is a time for both you and your pet to enjoy the sunshine and outdoors, but along with the fun, the season also offers up situations that can endanger your pet. By taking precautions, you can decrease the chance that disaster will happen. The HSUS offers these tips for pet owners to keep their furry friends safe this summer:
In nice weather you may be tempted to take your pet with you in the car while you travel or do errands. But during warm weather, the inside of your car can reach 120° in a matter of minutes, even if you're parked in the shade. This can mean real trouble for your companion animals left in the car. Dogs and cats can't perspire and can only dispel heat by panting and through the pads of their feet. Pets who are left in hot cars even briefly can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, and can even die. Don't think that just because you'll be gone "just a minute" that your pet will be safe while you're gone; even an air conditioned car with the motor off isn't healthy for your pet. To avoid any chance that your pet will succumb to the heat of a car this summer, be sure to play it safe by leaving your pet cool and refreshed at home while you're on the road. And if you do happen to see a pet in a car alone during the hot summer months, alert the management of the store where the car is parked. If the owner does not return promptly, call local animal control or the police department immediately.
Want to help educate others about the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars? During the summer months (May through September) The HSUS has educational posters available for purchase ($3 for 10, $5 for 25) that store managers can post inside their windows to remind shoppers that "Leaving Your Pet in a Parked Car Can be a Deadly Mistake". In addition, 4" x 9" two-sided flyers are also available (50 for $3.00). To order please send a check, your mailing address and the number of posters or flyers that you would like to receive to the following address: HSUS/Hot Cars, 2100 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037. You can also receive a free sample flyer by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the above address.
It is very dangerous, and in some states illegal, to drive with a dog in the back of a pick-up truck. Not only can flying debris cause serious injury, but a dog may be unintentionally thrown into traffic if the driver suddenly hits the brakes, swerves, or is hit by another car. Dogs should ride either in the cab (in a crate or wearing a seat belt harness designed for dogs) or in a secured crate in the bed of the truck.
Summer is often a time when people fertilize their lawns and work in their gardens. But beware: Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them. In addition, more than 700 plants can produce physiologically active or toxic substances in sufficient amounts to cause harmful effects in animals.
With people and dogs spending more time outside, dog bites are likely to increase in the summer months. Spaying or nuetering your dog reduces the likelihood that he will bite and provides many other health benefits.
Make sure your pet is always wearing a collar and identification tag. If you are separated from your pet, an ID tag may very well be his or her ticket home.
Check with your veterinarian to see if your pets should be taking heartworm prevention medication. Heartworm disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, can be fatal in both dogs and cats.
Pets and pools can equal disaster. Prevent free access to pools and always supervise a pet in a pool.
Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while they're enjoying the great outdoors so they can stay cool.
If you plan on traveling with your pet during the summer, take the time to prepare for your furry friends in advance. Many airlines have summer pet embargoes, and most trains and ships do not allow pets other than service animals. The HSUS has information on traveling with your pets that may make the difference between a pleasant trip and a vacation nightmare.
Pets need exercise even when it is hot, but extra care needs to be taken with older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and those with thick coats. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Keep in mind that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws.
Another summertime threat is fleas and ticks. Use only flea and tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian. Some over-the-counter flea and tick products can be toxic, even when used according to instructions.
Pets can get sunburned too, and your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. Pets with light-colored noses or light-colored fur on their ears are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer.
Don't take your pets to crowded summer events such as concerts or fairs. The loud noises and crowds, combined with the heat, can be stressful and dangerous for pets. For your pet's well being, leave her at home. Be especially aware of these threats during holidays, such as the Fourth of July.
In summer heat your pet can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions are very serious and could cause your pet to die. You should be aware of the signs of heat stress, which could include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue. If your pet does become overheated, you need to immediately lower his body temperature. Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water over his body to gradually lower his core body temperature. Apply cold towels or ice packs to your pet's head, neck, and chest only. Let your pet drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes. Most importantly, get him to a veterinarian immediately.
The best way to keep a dog’s coat healthy and provide protection from the sun is to have him or her groomed regularly. In between visits to the groomer, the right grooming tool can dramatically reduce shedding by removing the undercoat and loose hair without sacrificing healthy top coat.
Just like humans, dogs can experience sunburn, and even skin cancer, too. To prevent sunburn, apply a sunscreen where hair is thin and skin lacks pigment (nose, ears and sensitive areas) every day your dog is outside.
Dehydration and heatstroke can be fatal to pets, so access to clean drinking water is critical in the summertime. Products like an outdoor pet fountain provide a stream of fresh, clean water.
While on the go, be sure to bring water for your pet in a suitable drinking container.
Dogs’ pads may seem tough, but sidewalks, pavement and sand can get so hot in the summer time that dogs’ feet can burn and blister. To prevent this, schedule walks for the morning or evening, when sidewalks are cooler or purchase protective boots designed just for dogs.
A grassy area in your yard is an ideal spot for pets to cool off because grass releases moisture and keeps your pet cooler than concrete, dirt or gravel. For added comfort, pets can lounge on a raised bed that increases the flow of cooler air underneath the bed mat to help your pet beat the heat.