TOO HOT FOR SPOT – 4 important tips to keep your dog safe this holiday

This Memorial Day Weekend, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) and Boston Veterinary Care (BVC) want to remind you that the warm weather and bustle of the holiday’s festivities may be too stressful on your pup.

Pets don’t sweat like humans do and cannot cool their bodies efficiently in hot temperatures. Even when the outside temperature is 70 degrees, the inside of a car can heat up to more than 100 degrees in just minutes – even with the windows cracked! That’s why leaving your pet inside of a hot car is the most common cause of deadly heat stroke.

Watch this video to learn why it’s TOO HOT FOR SPOT.

With temperatures rising close to 90 degrees this weekend, remember these 4 important tips to keep your dog safe:

  1. heat stroke

    Never leave your pet alone in a parked car on a warm day- even with the windows cracked. It’s just TOO HOT FOR SPOT!

    Never leave your pup alone in a parked car if they must travel with you. On a hot day, the temperature inside a parked car can cause deadly heatstroke- even with the windows cracked.

  2. Always keep your canine on a leash or in a carrier if they must be outside. Set them up in a cool shady spot with ample air flow and plenty of fresh water.
  3. Keep your pooch away from potentially hazardous objects. Secure your pet a good distance from sparklers, BBQs, and pools. Remember that some pets can become “fearfully aggressive” due to loud noises, so monitor them closely, especially around small children.
  4. Make sure your dog’s microchip and ID tag information is current. Many animal shelters report increases of “stray” animals on holidays due to the number of pets running away from the noise and excitement. Be sure your contact information is current and always on your pup’s collar to ensure an easy reunion should they be separated from you.

Prevention is responsible pet ownership. When in doubt, leave your pet at home in a quiet cool room. Turn on a TV or radio to help detract from outside noises and leave them free to roam around so that they don’t feel too confined.

Learn more about why it’s TOO HOT FOR SPOT at arlboston.org/summersafety