Special to The Star-Herald
The hot weather is here. Isn’t it nice to get out and enjoy it? The last thing we think about is a tragedy, but that is what you need to consider the next time you leave your pet in a hot vehicle. Don’t count on air conditioning to keep them cool, and no, leaving your window open a crack is not enough to protect your pet from overheating, causing brain damage, or worse, death. The inside of your car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, even if you park in the shade. If it is hot outside, leave your dog home!
It is also very important during the summer to provide your pets – both inside and out – with plenty of fresh water. Dogs and cats can suffer dehydration, so it is necessary for them to have fresh water. It is also necessary to provide dogs left outside with a shady place, a shelter, to get out of the sun. Another problem with pets and sun is sunburn. Pets, too, can suffer from sunburn, so your pet may require sunscreen on their noses and tips of the ears.
Again, dogs allowed loose in the back of pickups is illegal in the state of Maine. It is much safer for your dog to ride inside the vehicle or in a secured crate. That is the law!
This Saturday, June 16 is “Story Time with the Animals” at the Central Aroostook Humane Society. Please join us for a story, a snack and a tour of the shelter to meet some of our wonderful residents. Story Time will be at 10 a.m. I hope you and your children can join us!
If you are looking for a friend for life, please consider adopting from the Central Aroostook Humane Society. Visit our Web site at www.centralaroostookhumanesociety.org or give us a call at 764-3441.
Please have your pets spayed or neutered.
