Bristow area has seen a slight change in the temperatures this week, getting some much needed relief from the sweltering heat wave that has been upon us.
Any time your pet is outside, make sure they have protection from heat and sun and plenty of fresh, cold water. In heat waves, add ice to water when possible.
Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it's hot or humid outdoors. Make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun, Tree shade and tarps are ideal because they don't obstruct air flow.
If your pet has been out in extreme temperatures, make sure to watch for signs of heat stress or heat stroke. If you see signs of heat stress in your pets, the best thing to do is get them into a cool, shady area and give them water to drink.
There are precautions you can take, like keeping your pet off hot asphalt, out of parked cars and shielded from the sun.
Limit walks to the cooler early morning or evening hours, in part because hot asphalt can put dogs at risk for burned paw pads. Feeling the pavement with the back of your hand to see whether it's tolerable for dogs. Remember,if its hot out to you then it is hot for those furry friends too.