07/27/2022
For those of us in the Portland Area, it is time to skip any and all walks with your dog, for at least the next week.
❌ ...even if you go to the river.
❌ ...even if you stay in the shade.
❌ ...even if you only walk on the grass.
🥵 It is TOO HOT for your dog to be outdoors for more than a few minutes to potty.
🔥 Walking or running in any temperature above 75F/24C can cause your dog to overheat, leading quickly to irreparable injury/ illness, or death.
🔥 For puppies, senior dogs, and brachycephalic dogs, any temperature above 70F/ 21C can be quickly dangerous.
🔥 Pavement and asphalt in the sun will be 30 to 60 degrees hotter than the air temperature. This means that at only 77F degrees, the sidewalks and roads can be 125F, causing thermal burns and excruciating pain to your dog's paw pads in less than one minute.
🔥 Do the Ten Second Test: If you find it uncomfortable to press the back of your hand against the asphalt or concrete for ten seconds, then it is absolutely too hot to walk your dog on it.
🔥 Even if it feels "fine" outside to you, your dog cannot regulate their temperature the way you can- do not risk their safety.
🔥 Keep your dog indoors with access to fans, AC if you have it, cool spots to rest, unlimited fresh cold water, and even cold wet towels, if necessary.
🐶What activities are you and your dog doing this week to stay cool and avoid unnecessary heat exposure?🐶
Copied and pasted from Synergy Behavior Solutions! Thank you for this very important reminder!
