Dear Editor,
The planet experienced its hottest day on record this week, and for much of the country, there is no end in sight to these dangerous temperatures. Experts predict Arizona will endure scorching conditions for the foreseeable future.
As unsafe as sweltering temperatures are for us, they can be even more deadly for dogs. The worst-afflicted are flat-faced, breathing-impaired breeds (BIBs), like bulldogs, Boston terriers, pugs, and boxers, who struggle to breathe even on mild days. Because dogs release body heat primarily through panting, BIBs, who can’t breathe as efficiently as dogs with normal-length snouts, are at least twice as likely to suffer from heatstroke. BIB guardians must take extra precautions.
Dogs should never be chained or penned outdoors, but this heat can kill them. Please bring them inside. Also look out for other animals. Ensure they have water, shade, and shelter, and encourage their owners to let them inside.
Leave your dog at home when you run errands. When it’s this hot outside, parked cars become literal deathtraps in minutes. Cracking the windows doesn’t help.
Hot pavement can burn dogs’ footpads. Test it by placing your hand on the pavement for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s feet. Walk early in the morning or at night in shady, grassy areas; take breaks; and offer sips of water.
Every year, untold numbers of companion animals die painful, terrifying, preventable heat-related deaths. As their guardians, we must do better.
Sincerely,
Melissa Rae Sanger, LVT
The PETA Foundation
