Mesa Animal Control Reminds Residents to Keep Pets Safe in the Heat

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~ As the summer heat continues to scorch Arizona, the City of Mesa and Mesa Animal Control are urging residents to take extra precautions to protect their furry friends. With temperatures reaching triple digits on a daily basis, pets are at risk of dehydration, sunburns, and even drowning in pools.

Mayor John Giles emphasized the importance of keeping pets safe during this time, stating, "Dogs, cats and other pets are precious to our family and friends and this is the time of year we need to take the extra effort to make sure they stay safe while they are outdoors."

To help pet owners keep their animals safe, Mesa Animal Control has provided some helpful tips. First and foremost, it is crucial not to leave pets locked inside a car. In just 10 minutes, temperatures inside a vehicle can increase by 20 degrees, putting animals at risk of heatstroke.

If you see an animal locked in a vehicle or believe an animal is being abused or neglected, do not hesitate to call 911 for assistance. Mesa Animal Control also reminds residents that water evaporates faster in hotter temperatures, so it is important to provide pets with an adequate supply of water in a plastic bowl while away from home.

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Shade and shelter from the heat are also essential for pets. Make sure your animal has access to adequate shade throughout the day. When deciding whether or not to walk your dog in warmer conditions, consider whether you would be able to walk without shoes on hot sidewalks or pavement – if you can't do it comfortably, neither can your pet.

For those with pools at home, it is important to ensure that your dog knows how to swim and where the steps are located. If your dog cannot exit the pool on its own due to size or medical issues, it is best to keep them indoors when you are unable to supervise them around the pool area.

As Fourth of July approaches, it is important not to bring pets along to any outdoor activities where there will be fireworks. The loud noises and bright lights can be distressing for animals. Instead, leave them at home with the television or radio on to help cover the noise and close the blinds to prevent any alarm from flashing lights. If your pet is used to being in a crate, it may also be helpful to crate them during this time.

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Mesa Animal Control Supervisor Shannon Gross emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership during hot weather, stating, "If you see an animal struggling in the heat, don't hesitate to call us." Mesa Animal Control is dedicated to helping both people and animals in need, including rescuing pets in distress during hot weather.

It is also crucial for pets to have proper identification in case they do escape. This includes current licenses for dogs and microchips with up-to-date information. In the event that a pet does go missing, this will increase the chances of being reunited with their owner.

It is important for residents to remember that leaving an animal in a vehicle intentionally, knowingly or recklessly is a class one misdemeanor in Arizona and can result in jail time, probation, and fines up to $2,500.

For more information on how to keep your pets safe during hot weather or if you need assistance from Mesa Animal Control, please visit their website. Let's work together to ensure our furry friends stay safe and cool during these scorching summer days.

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