From Rea Cord, Humane Society of Elmore County
Photos courtesy of Punishers LEMC Three Rivers
Largely, the rain held off, making for an excellent day for the Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club River Region Chapter benefit Poker Run supporting our Shelter. This first-time event saw a fantastic turnout. We were thrilled to have everyone visit the Shelter to see our pets, and significant enjoyment was shared when participants gathered back at the clubhouse afterward. We anticipate announcing the total amount raised later this week once all accounting is finalized. We extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who dedicated their efforts to organizing this event and to all who participated to support a wonderful day of riding for the benefit of animals.
Looking ahead, if you are a pet owner making plans to be away for the 4th of July holiday, we hope your pet boarding reservations are already secured. Boarding facilities typically reach full capacity for long weekends, so it is imperative to call immediately if you haven’t already done so. Remember, updating your pet’s vaccinations with your Veterinarian is also a requirement for all boarding facilities.
As we are now deep into the hot days of summer, it’s essential to prioritize your pet’s safety if they spend time outside while you are away. Providing shade, ensuring moving air if possible, and offering plenty of clean, cool water are absolutely critical. Ensure your outside pet’s water source is not only shaded but that there is a substantial amount available. Plastic children’s wading pools can be excellent, as some dogs will even lie in the water to cool down. Affordable box fans can also greatly assist with circulating shaded air, but please verify your dog(s) cannot chew on the power cord and regularly clean the fan to minimize any fire risk from accumulated dust and hair.
Dog houses MUST be situated in ample shade; otherwise, they become nothing more than mini-ovens completely unappealing to any pet. If you believe an unshaded doghouse provides adequate shelter for your pet, we encourage you to crawl inside one yourself this summer to experience it. Our ideal scenario, of course, is for dogs and cats to be safely inside your home, enjoying the air conditioning or fans alongside their human family.
For owners of ‘short-nosed’ breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Frenchies, Boston Terriers, and others, keeping them in air-conditioning is non-negotiable! These brachycephalic breeds are truly HOUSE DOGS IN SUMMER as they are highly susceptible to heatstroke or fatality if left outdoors in high temperatures, even with shade.
While many enjoy exercising with their pets daily, honestly, during this time of year – PLEASE LEAVE THEM AT HOME. The interior of your car can rapidly become a deadly oven in mere minutes, and you can never predict when a quick errand might extend longer than planned. Getting stuck in traffic could cause your car’s AC to fail or the vehicle to overheat. Many contemporary vehicles automatically shut off after a limited idling period. Furthermore, the AC in idling vehicles can also malfunction or simply stop cooling effectively, leading to tragic outcomes. If you observe a pet left unattended in a parked vehicle during these hot conditions, please contact the appropriate law enforcement agency so they can take necessary action.
And absolutely no dog belongs in the bed of a pickup truck – just DON’T DO IT! The surface of a truck bed gets hot enough to severely burn your dog’s paw pads. Please bring your dog into the cab with you so they can enjoy the air conditioning and travel much more safely.
For everyone who enjoys visiting yard sales, flea markets, and outdoor festivals or events during this season, PLEASE JUST LEAVE YOUR DOG AT HOME. You might feel bringing your pet demonstrates your affection, but far too many dogs are simply uncomfortable (or genuinely endangered) on hot sand or pavement. They would be significantly happier (and healthier) staying cool at home in the AC, eagerly awaiting your return.
Our pets are not superhuman and cannot endure conditions that are unbearable for us. If you are suffering in the heat, your pet is too. Please plan accordingly to ensure your pet remains safe and content throughout our extended Alabama summer.
