Safety Tips for Hot Weather
With warmer weather in the air, Tolland’s Animal Control Officers would like to remind pet owners of some very important matters.
We welcome dogs and their owner’s to enjoy our town parks and trails, however dogs MUST be leashed at all times and owners MUST pick up after their dog. Our parks and trail systems are for all residents to enjoy. Please be courteous since we all share the same paths!
Remember animals of any species are NOT permitted on playgrounds, ball fields, tennis courts or school running tracks.
When traveling with your pets, be aware of temperatures and humidity levels. It only takes minutes for the interior of a parked vehicle to climb to extreme temperatures. Even when outside temperatures register in the 60’s, the heat inside a vehicle can climb into the ‘danger zone’ after only a short period of time. Parking your vehicle in the shade and rolling down a window doesn’t guarantee your pet protection from heatstroke and/or suffocation. Your dog does not sweat and have the ability to regulate its body heat as efficiently as a human can therefore a dog can quickly overheat and suffer from heatstroke.
Did you know that by rolling down your window for ventilation even partially, your pet can escape if upset, startled or provoked? Your pet could also be stolen! Additionally, passersby may try to feed or pet the animal through the car window. If your pet bites or is accused of biting anyone, you as the owner will be liable for your pet’s actions.
Dogs left outdoors must be provided shelter from the sun and rain, and must have clean water available to them at all times. If you must keep your dog(s) outdoors, it is recommended that they be sheltered in a secure, covered kennel rather than chained or tied out. Dogs can easily become entangled and injure their legs, trachea or even be strangled by their own cable tie out.
Most of all please remember that our job as responsible pet owners is to ensure the safety and well-being of our furry friends.
Please click on the links below for additional Hot Weather Safety Tips for your pets: