Keeping Your Pets Safe and Sound Throughout the Arizona Summer
Arizona summers are truly unique, bringing with them intense heat, dramatic monsoons, and a flourishing of desert life. For us at Orange Grove Animal Hospital, your pet's well-being is our top priority. As the temperatures rise and the summer storms roll in, here are some key considerations to keep your pets happy and healthy.
Pavement Predicament: Protecting Paws from the Scorching Sun
We all know Arizona gets hot, but did you know the pavement can be significantly hotter than the air temperature? A good rule of thumb is this: if you can't comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Even on seemingly cooler days, asphalt and concrete can retain immense heat, leading to painful burns and blisters.
Bulldogs & Pugs Pet Owners:
The above is especially crucial for our brachycephalic (smushed-face) friends like bulldogs and pugs. Their unique anatomy makes it harder for them to breathe efficiently, which in turn impairs their ability to cool themselves down. Always opt for walks during the cooler parts of the day – early mornings or late evenings – and choose grassy areas or shaded trails whenever possible.
Monsoon Madness: Calming Canine Anxiety
While the monsoon rains bring a welcome respite from the heat, the accompanying thunder, lightning, and strong winds can be a source of significant anxiety for some dogs. If your furry friend becomes distressed during storms, pacing, panting, whining, or hiding, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We can discuss various strategies to help keep them calm and comfortable during these dramatic weather events, from behavioral modification techniques to medication if necessary. Schedule an appointment with us so we can assess your pet's individual needs and create a personalized plan.
Mysterious Mushrooms: A Foraging Foe
The increased moisture from monsoon rains often leads to a proliferation of wild mushrooms. While some are harmless, many can be highly toxic to dogs, causing a range of symptoms from gastrointestinal upset to liver failure and even death. As you're enjoying the post-rain freshness, keep a watchful eye on your dog, especially if they have a tendency to sniff out and ingest things from the ground. If you suspect your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, contact us immediately. If possible, bring a sample of the mushroom with you for identification.
Beware the Bufo: A Toady Threat
Another creature that becomes more active during the monsoon season is the Colorado River Toad, also known as the Sonoran Desert Toad or Bufo toad. These large amphibians secrete a potent toxin from glands on their skin, which can be highly dangerous, even fatal, if ingested or absorbed through your dog's mucous membranes. Dogs often encounter these toads by mouthing or licking them. Symptoms of bufo toad poisoning can include drooling, vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and collapse. If you see your dog interacting with a bufo toad, or if you suspect they have been exposed, immediately flush your dog's mouth with water and contact us or an emergency veterinary clinic right away.
By being mindful of these seasonal considerations, you can help ensure your pet enjoys a safe and healthy Arizona summer. As always, if you have any concerns about your pet's well-being, please don't hesitate to contact us at info@orangegroveah.com to schedule an appointment!
