07/02/2026
PSA for the surrounding area this week:
We are looking at dangerous heat heading into the 4th of July weekend, with heat index values possibly reaching 100–110° today through Saturday. On top of that, there is a chance of strong storms Saturday afternoon and more storm chances Sunday into Monday.
Please make a plan now for your dogs.
This is not the week for long walks, mid-day hikes, errands with the dog in the car, or “just a quick stop” while they wait inside the vehicle. Even with the windows cracked, cars can become deadly very quickly.
Walk early in the morning or later in the evening. Keep walks short. Bring water. Stick to grass when possible. Check pavement with your hand. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for their paws. Keep dogs inside during the worst heat of the day.
Make sure outdoor dogs have shade, water, and a way to cool down.
Be extra careful with older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs, short-nosed breeds, thick-coated breeds, and dogs with heart or breathing issues.
Watch for heavy panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, confusion, bright red gums, wobbliness, or collapse. Those can be signs of heat stress or heat stroke, and that is a veterinary emergency.
Also, with storms and fireworks both possible this weekend, please double-check collars, ID tags, microchips, fences, gates, and doors. A scared dog can bolt in seconds, especially with thunder or fireworks!
Bring them inside before dark. Potty them early. Keep them in a quiet, secure room if they are nervous.
The best outcome is not needing a lost dog search at all. Please plan ahead, keep them cool, and keep them safe this week.
