Page 8 • August 2021 • Golden Gazette
How to keep your pets safe in the sun By Allison Monacelli When summer rolls around each year, people seem to forget how hot it really gets. August’s average temperature for Lubbock is 91 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping yourself cool is all people seem to think about, but an important part of your summer activities
should be keeping your pets cool as well. Julie Kuenstle, vice president of communications and marketing at the Houston SPCA, stressed the importance of keeping the family pets hydrated and happy during these summer months. “We are at a very critical time,” Kuenstle said, “espe-
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cially here in Houston where we can see really extreme temperatures; and it’s not just the heat, it’s also the humidity.” Kuenstle said she has already had two cases in Houston of animals dying of heat and owners’ neglect. “Here in Houston you do see a lot of animals outside,” Kuenstle said. “The Houston SPCA strongly encourages all pet owners to bring their pets inside, even if it’s just for the worst part of the day.” The hottest part of the day is 2 to 4 p.m., Kuenstle said. Many people believe it is noon, but it gets much hotter in the afternoons. Throughout the day, the shade moves with the sun, Kuenstle said. Making sure you know where your pet is and not tethering them outside is vital to keeping them
safe. “Always know where your pet is,” Kuenstle said. “If they are outside, make sure you know that there is water, there is shade, they’ve got shelter, and that they have plenty of food.” Kuenstle said it doesn’t take long for a pet to overheat and die if left alone outside. If you are someone who loves to have their pet outside with them, don’t be afraid to bring them out, just make sure they are safe by walking them early in the morning or late in the evening. “Hit those times of the day where you know your pet will be able to manage the heat,” Kuenstle said. Kuenstle stressed the im-
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portance of never leaving your dog in the car, even when it’s hot or cold. The best thing to do is leave them at home with food and water. “Texas state law says you have to provide your pet, which is considered property, food, water, and shelter,” Kuenstle said. “You have to make those things available to your pet, and you are responsible. Leaving your pet outside without those items is against the law, and it’s cruel.” To report animal cruelty or neglect in the Lubbock area, contact Animal Control Lubbock at 775-3357 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 775-2057 from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. If you can’t be kind, at least have the decency to be vague.
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