Is Your Dog Cool?

Here's some important info that I thought I would pass on... Please take heed, before a crisis! –Kim

My Dog is Cool

The "dog days" of summer can be dangerous for dogs – especially those dogs left inside hot cars. Every year, countless dogs die after being locked in cars while their owners work, visit, shop or run other errands. These tragic deaths are entirely preventable.

How Hot Do Cars Get?
Have you ever noticed how hot it can get inside a car on a summer day – far hotter than it is outside? That's because a car acts like a greenhouse, trapping the sun's heat.


A study by the Animal Protection Institute showed that even moderately warm temperatures outside can quickly lead to deadly temperatures inside a closed car.

The study, conducted during a local heat wave, compared an outside temperature of a shaded area with the inside of an automobile in three states: fully closed, with four windows cracked and with two windows cracked. Inside temperatures were measured with an indoor-outdoor thermometer and an oven thermometer (both readings are given).

Day 1
Outside Temperature		Inside Closed Automobile
		Indoor-Outdoor	Oven Thermometer
9:00 am	82°F / 27.8°C	109°F / 42.8°C	----
9:30 am	87°F / 30.6°C	115°F / 46.1°C	----
10:00 am	91°F / 32.8°C	115°F / 46.1°C	----
10:30 am	94°F / 34.4°C	114°F / 45.6°C	115°F / 46.1°C
11:00 am	98°F / 36.7°C	114°F / 45.6°C	119°F / 48.3°C
11:30 am	100°F / 37.8°C	117°F / 47.2°C	124°F / 51.1°C
12:00 pm	101°F / 38.3°C	119°F / 48.3°C	127°F / 52.8°C
1:30 pm	112°F / 44.4°C	124°F / 51.1°C	130°F / 54.4°C
2:30 pm	125°F / 51.7°C	130°F / 54.4°C	159°F / 70.6°C
4:00 pm	98°F / 36.7°C	110°F / 43.3°C	110°F / 43.3°C

Day 2
Outside Temperature		Inside Auto – Four Windows Cracked
		Indoor-Outdoor	Oven Thermometer
9:15 am	84°F / 28.9°C	98°F / 36.7°C	98°F / 36.7°C
10:00 am	88°F / 31.1°C	103°F / 39.4°C	105°F / 40.6°C
10:30 am	90°F / 32.2°C	108°F / 42.2°C	108°F / 42.2°C
11:00 am	92°F / 33.3°C	109°F / 42.8°C	109°F / 42.8°C
12:00 pm	95°F / 35.0°C	113°F / 45.0°C	113°F / 45.0°C
1:00 pm	101°F / 38.3°C	114°F / 45.6°C	115°F / 46.1°C
2:00 pm	110°F / 43.3°C	123°F / 50.6°C	120°F / 48.9°C
3:40 pm	112°F / 44.4°C	129°F / 53.9°C	128°F / 53.3°C
4:00 pm	115°F / 46.1°C	132°F / 55.6°C	130°F / 54.4°C

Day 3
Outside Temperature		Inside Auto – Two Windows Cracked
		Indoor-Outdoor	Oven Thermometer
8:30 am	72°F / 22.2°C	72°F / 22.2°C	72°F / 22.2°C
9:30 am	80°F / 26.7°C	95°F / 35.0°C	95°F / 35.0°C
12:00 pm	88°F / 31.1°C	105°F / 40.6°C	105°F / 40.6°C
1:50 pm	99°F / 37.2°C	109°F / 42.8°C	109°F / 42.8°C
2:30 pm	104°F / 40.0°C	120°F / 48.9°C	120°F / 48.9°C
(both thermometers showed identical readings)

Other studies show similar results:

• San Francisco State University – April 2007 fact sheet utilizing data from a Golden Gate Weather Services study.
• Another study reprinted from the Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society.
• A study from Stanford University shows that even on comparatively cool days, such as 72°F (22.2°C), a car's internal temperature will rocket to 116°F (46.7°C) within 60 minutes. And keeping the windows open a crack hardly slows the rise at all.
  

Source: http://redrover.org/mydogiscool/how-hot-do-cars-get
© 2012 RedRover
 

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Also, see:

• How Hot Does It Get in a Parked Car? – Dr. Ernie Ward
• Keep Pets Safe from Warm Weather
• How to Help Your Pet Survive the Summer Heat
• State Laws that Protect Animals Left in Parked Vehicles
• My Dog is Cool Pledge

 

Product Review: Silver Lining Herbs

Valuable Resource...

Product Review:
Got an Anxious Pup? Silver Lining Herbs Can Help!

In my years of being a doggy parent, and especially throughout my work with rescue dogs, I have many times come across dogs with fear and anxiety issues...

• fear of thunderstorms,
• fear of loud noises,
• fear of the groomer,
• fear of the Vet,
• you name it!

As a mom to an excruciatingly thunderphobic rescued Rat Terrier, I have tried many over-the-counter calming aids and sprays with little results. Whereas I used to enjoy looking forward to the advent of Spring in the Midwest and the subsequent April showers, I usually watch the Weather Channel in dread. Just the scent of rain in the wind can now send my "Sam" into a panic.

(I've found him trembling in the dark corner of my kitchen closet pantry, behind the pop bottles... this after a long search. At least, this is better than behind the toilet.)

I'll have to admit that, when I decided to try "Keep Cool" by Silver Lining Herbs, I was a little skeptical. Sam had become more and more paranoid over the past couple of years, seeming to grow worse with every storm. His anxiety was increasing to include the sound of trucks, so his paranoia was becoming year 'round. He even began to bark and hide when large groups of people came to visit, like on family birthdays.

So, when I first gave Sam one of the little herbal capsules (in a small meatball), I wasn't expecting much... until I realized a couple hours later he was laying relaxed on the couch in the middle of company ... hmmmmmm ... that's odd ... coincidence?

Tried it again when the groomer came to groom my Groomer-hating Yorkie... gave it to Sam AND my Yorkie... peace again! Both dogs were calm and NORMAL, not sleepy or drugged, just relaxed and alert. I could actually cut my Yorkie's nails. Sam didn't bark like a fanatic.

The true test came in March when we had our first storm of the season. I gave Sam the Keep Cool herbs about an hour before I knew the storm was supposed to hit. By the time the thunder started, he was relaxed and prepared. He didn't even hide this time; he just laid on the kitchen rug next to me while I was on the computer, alert but calm.

Sam has since weathered (pun) several storms the past few weeks, handled them fine, even slept in his bed during the night when the storms came through during the wee morning hours. I am actually beginning to enjoy Spring again!

(Now, I need to make sure the grid is off the drain pipe in the back, and not plugged with leaves, so the rain water doesn't back up to the house and leak into my basement... but I don't think Silver Lining Herbs can help with THAT. At least, SAM is calm as he watches me run out in the rain to unplug the pipe... maybe I should take them!)

Keep Cool by Silver Lining Herbs really works! In my experience, it really does help my anxious or nervous dogs relax. I like the fact that my dogs remain calm and focused, not sleepy. The herbs are all natural, too, no extra unnecessary ingredients. Plus, and this is a BIG plus, the company is wonderful to work with... the service prompt and the personnel gracious. Easy to order, and their products are not expensive.

So, I thought I would just pass this info on to you, as a fellow dog owner who may be still dreading Spring and storm season, or struggling with anxious dogs in general – there is hope! Give Silver Lining Herbs "Keep Cool" a try (product #20)... your dog may rest easier, and you could save your sanity.

~~ Kim

PS - You may want to check out their other natural products for dogs, as well as for horses!

Dog Days of Summer

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it informative! –Kim

Keep Pets Safe from Warm Weather

If April showers bring May flowers, then the combination of the two mean a climbing heat index. While pets are eager to get outside as much as possible in warmer climates, the sunny weather is not without some perils for both cats and dogs.

Who should know better about pets, warm weather, and fun activities than Heidi Ganahl, CEO and founder of Camp Bow Wow USA (or Camp Bow Wow Canada), which boasts 200 nationwide franchises handling 108 camps a season. With each camp keeping about 100 dogs active on a daily basis, Ganahl is the premier expert on taking care of pets during the dog days of summer. So, Zootoo Pet News got her take on what owners can do to keep their pets safe this summer:

Q: In your experience, how have you watched the summer heat impact cats and dogs?

Ganahl: Summers provide lots of opportunities for fun with your dog — camping, hiking, swimming, kayaking and backpacking, to name a few — but also bring a unique set of health hazards and risks pet owners should be aware of including: dehydration, burned pads, parasite infestation, heat stroke, leptospirosis and seasonal allergies.

Q: Some heat-related "symptoms" are obvious — panting, drinking more water — but what are some more hidden behaviors which should indicate to owners that a cat or dog is feeling the effects of warm weather?

Ganahl: The eyes appear sunken and lack moisture. The mouth appears dry; gums and nose are dry.

Q: What is the most important activity a pet should be doing to beat the summer heat?

Ganahl: Keep them cool or out of the sun, and keep them calm and not too active!

Q: Are dogs or cats more prone to feel the effects of heat?

Ganahl: Different issues for each, but here’s the scoop on keeping kitties safe: you can help your cat survive extremely hot weather by keeping him indoors in a cool interior room. Rubbing him down with a damp towel will help; so will immersing his feet in a tub of cool water. Wrapping a cold compress under the cat's neck will also help cool him off. He may fight at first, but most likely will appreciate it once he gets used to the idea. Try wrapping a plastic bag of frozen peas in a towel, and placing it in his bed for a cool spot to lie. The peas will rearrange themselves to fit his contours and he'll have a "custom spa" for cooling off.

In addition to Ganahl's advice, there are myriad ways owners should work on keeping their pets safe. Check out Zootoo's compiled list below to ensure your cat and dog have a carefree and fun summer:

Pets need sunscreen. Just like humans, your cat or dog can get extremely sunburned, especially if your pet has light colored hair. Animal sunburns can cause the same problems as those of humans: peeling, redness and even cancer. Skin cancer in pets is much more prevalent than one would assume, so purchasing pet-friendly sunscreen can go a long way in protecting the health of your pet when the heat kicks in. Places that are easy to forget, but prone to burning are: inside the nostrils, tip of nose, around your dog’s lips and the inside of ears for dogs with stand-up ears.

Never leave your pet in the car. It may seem like a car trip will cool off your pet, but it will probably do more harm than good if you leave your pet in the car for even a few minutes. The temperature in your car can rise over 100 degrees in a manner of minutes, so if you are bringing the dog in the car, make sure you can take him out on any errands you run when parking the vehicle.

Pets need extra water... but don’t let them drink just anything. Just like humans, pets need a lot of water during the summer, but be careful not to leave that water out too long. The heat can breed bacteria, which can sicken your pet if you've left it out in the sun too long. Give your dog extra water during the spring and summer, but be careful to change the water often. If dogs are extra thirsty, pets are bound to drink something they shouldn't drink. Puddles of what looks like water may be on the ground, but these may include antifreeze or other dangerous chemicals, so keep an eye when the dog is panting and looking for something to sip on.

Don't give your pet TOO much exercise. Don't overdo it in the heat. Keep walks to a gentle pace. If your pet is panting a lot or seems exhausted, it's time to stop. There are quick and easy ways for you and your pet to get in shape together this summer, but one of them is not overdoing it — try changing up the routine and jogging intervals with your dog, or walking up and down hills in order to exercise both yourself and your pet.

Inside is better than outside. Even if your pet is in the shade, it can get sick quickly on hot days. As much as Fido wants to go outside, it is usually smarter to keep your pet inside as much as possible. If you have to leave the dog outside on a hot day, make sure to check on him/her regularly. NEVER leave the house on a hot day with the dog outside.

Watch for heatstroke. Dogs can develop heatstroke fairly quickly. Signs of this are excessive panting, staring, anxious expression on the face, warm skin, refusal to obey commands by owner, vomiting, collapse and rapid heartbeat. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from this, lower the animal's body temperature by applying towels soaked in cool water to the hairless areas of the body. Often, the pet will respond after just a few minutes of cooling, only to falter again with his temperature soaring back up or falling to well below what is normal. Take the dog to the vet immediately — don't try to solve this yourself.

Throw away uneaten food. Although you may leave wet cat or dog food food out during the day in winter months, summer months and warm weather lead to increased bacteria growth, so if your pet doesn't eat it immediately, bring the food inside to the cool house, where it can be kept for longer.

Source: http://petpac.net/news/headlines/keep_pets_safe_from_warm_weather/
© 2010 PetPAC

5 Ways to Keep Your Pet Cool

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it helpful! –Kim

How to Help Your Pet Survive the Summer Heat

By Peggy Frezon, Rensselaer, New York

"Do what we can, summer will have its flies" (Ralph Waldo Emerson).

While we may love the warmth and opportunity of bright summer days, handling the summer heat can be, well…as pesky as dealing with flies.

The same is true for our pets.

On especially hot days, my dog Kelly sprawls in the coolest corner of the house to keep comfortable. I turn on a tower fan – the kind that stands on the floor – to cool at her level, rather than up at windows or tabletops.

Here are some other tips for keeping your pet cool this summer.

1. Fill that bowl. The best way to keep your dog cool and comfortable is to provide plenty of fresh water all day. Some dogs won't drink warm water. Adding a few ice cubes to his bowl will help. Take a portable water bowl along whenever you're away from the house.
2. Create some water fun. You might provide your dog with a shallow kiddie pool, or invite him to join in with a splash under the sprinkler. You can gently spray her with a hose. Kelly balks at the hose, so I use a garden watering can instead.
3. Protect hot paws. Your shoes protect your feet from the hot pavement, but your dog's tender pads could get burned. Avoid walking in the street or on hot sidewalks, and opt for grass instead. Or walk your dog in the cooler part of the evening.
4. Consider a hair cut. Many owners shave their dogs down in the summer. But, according to Webvet some breeds need their fur to protect them and actually keep them cooler. Check with your veterinarian or groomer to decide what's best for your pet.
5. Be careful in the car. Never leave your dog unattended in the car, even with windows cracked...even if you park in the shade. It only takes a few minutes for the heat to build up, which could lead to heat stroke.

Your dog is a part of your family. By keeping him cool and comfortable, you can include him on a hike, picnic or other outing – and that's one part of summer that's always fun!

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Peggy Frezon, freelance writer and pet lover, has owned dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, hermit crabs, turtles and fish. Visit here twice monthly to read helpful tips on caring for your pets and check out her blog.

Source: http://www.guideposts.com/print/27351