Hey Austin! It's HOT outside. Keep your dogs safe in the heat.
As you know, this time of year it gets hot! We all need to be aware that dogs (and cats) don't tolerate the heat as well as people and it can even be life threatening. Please use good judgement when walking or handling pets outdoors. We want to spread this message to keep everyone's trail buddies safe and healthy during the hottest time of year.
You may have seen these signs that we are placing along the Butler Trail at Lady Bird Lake. Please take a look and be aware of the signs that a dog is too hot - we want everyone to have a happy and healthy summer with their four-legged friends!
Here are some pointers:
Dogs are 10x more likely to suffer from heat exhaustion than people so if you are super hot, the dog is hotter!
Dogs can only sweat through their mouth, feet, and ears which means they can't dissipate heat like you who can sweat all over
If overheated, get them wet to speed the cooling process
Dogs need shade and water as much as possible
If a dog looks hot, react by decreasing their activity and get them to a cooler spot
Asphalt is HOT so try walking dogs on grass instead
Though not the trail running kind - cats can overheat too! They demonstrate being overheated by panting.
DO NOT LEAVE ANY PETS IN CARS FOR ANY AMOUNT OF TIME UNLESS A/C IS ON (dogs will overheat in minutes)
Our friends at RuffTail Runners have very strict rules when it comes to our dogs at Town Lake Animal Center and the heat. Keep these restrictions in mind when you are thinking about taking your dog out for a run this summer.
