Division is reminding pet owners that it's once again the time of year
we hear fireworks, firecrackers, thunderstorms and experience hot
temperatures! Please be mindful how this affects your pets as the 4th
of July holiday approaches and summer thunderstorms and heat waves
roll through our region.
"July 5th is the busiest day of the year at animal shelters. Dogs are
found miles from their homes, confused, disoriented, and exhausted.
People call hoping to locate a missing dog that, terrified, crashed
through a window, jumped a high fence, or broke its leash or chain."
-The American Humane Association
Animal Care & Control advises that you secure your pet in an area of
your home where it feels safe and secure. This will help avoid
unnecessary stress on your pet or possible injury and accidental escape.
• If your pet is upset by a door slamming or other loud noises
consider consulting with your vet for a type of sedative.
• Some animals become destructive when frightened, so be sure that
you've removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be
harmful to your pet if chewed or consumed.
• Leave a radio or television on at normal volume to provide your pet
companionship.
• Make sure your pets are wearing identification or microchipped so
they can be returned if they do get lost. Animals found running at-
large should be taken to the Animal Care & Control at 8315 Byrum Drive
in Charlotte, where they will have the best chance of being reunited
with their owners.
MICROCHIPS
Animal Care & Control recommends microchipping your pet. It's
permanent identification for your pet. All of our Animal Care &
Control Trucks are equipped with microchip scanners and every animal
that is picked up is immediately scanned for a microchip. If a chip
is located the animal can be returned home immediately, without having
to come to the shelter. Animal Care & Control also encourages
everyone who has a pet that's microchipped to register your pet in our
local database for FREE.
To register online go to http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/CMPD/organization/Support/AnimalControl/Outreachprograms/Pages/Microchips.aspx
LOST PETS
Lastly, to look for a lost pet, first check the lost pets section on
our website http://animals.cmpd.org
We also suggest coming to the shelter to walk through our stray kennels.
Hot weather can be deadly for your pets. In daily activities or when
vacationing with Fido, remember to protect them from the summer heat!
EXERCISING PETS
• Walk or exercise your pets in the early morning or late evening.
• Monitor them frequently as you are walking and cut back the level
and length of time you are exercising them.
• Be mindful of the humidity as it also makes it harder for pets to
breath.
• Certain breeds are more susceptible to having breathing issues.
(Brachycephalic or dogs with short snouts)
• Pugs
• Boxers
• Bulldogs
• Boston Terriers
• Pekingese
• Shar pei
• Shih Tzu
• When walking dogs, do not let your dog stand on hot asphalt,
pavement or sand. Paw pads are sensitive and will burn easily.
VEHICLES AND PETS
• Never leave pet in vehicle, even if you are just running into the
store for a minute.
• Parking in the shade does not help.
PETS WHO LIVE OUTSIDE
· In extreme temperatures, bring pets inside.
· Provide plenty of fresh, cold water.
• Provide shade and shelter such as a dog house or dog igloo.
• Place a kid pool in a shaded area and fill with fresh water every
day. This will allow the dog to cool itself.
HEARTWORM & FLEA & TICK PREVENTATIVE
• It's Mosquito, Flea & Tick season. It's imperative that dogs are
on heartworm and flea/tick preventative.
• Heartworms are very prevalent in this region and are deadly if not
treated.
• A once a month heartworm pill will save your dog's life.
IF YOUR PET IS EXPOSED TO HIGH TEMPERATURES
• Be alert for signs of heat stress. Heavy panting, glazed eyes, a
rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red
or purple tongue.
• If your pet becomes overheated, you must lower her body temperature
immediately
• Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water all
over the body to gradually lower temperature
• Apply ice packs or cool towels to your pet's head, neck and chest
• Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes
• Take your pet directly to a veterinarian!
Make it a safe and happy holiday and summer season for you and your
pets!
website http://animals.cmpd.org
