As temperatures soar this summer, animal advocates in Aiken, South Carolina, are emphasizing the importance of keeping pets safe from the sweltering heat. Local caregivers highlight the need for increased vigilance regarding shade, hydration, and overall pet welfare during these extreme weather conditions.
Bobby Arthurs, the manager of the Aiken County Animal Shelter, advises pet owners to limit outdoor exposure, especially during the hottest parts of the day. “If it’s at all possible, during this heat, to keep them indoors, we would absolutely prefer to do that,” he stated. For those with outdoor pets, ensuring access to clean water and adequate shade is essential. One local resident has creatively tackled this challenge by placing a pan under a dripping faucet, providing a continuous supply of water for her pets.
Maintaining Hydration and Shelter
According to Capt. Mark Graham, the animal control officer for Edgefield County, it is crucial to provide water bowls that cannot be easily tipped over, which could leave pets without hydration. He recommends using sturdy bowls and ensuring that dogs have access to shade throughout the day. This is particularly important as the sun shifts, affecting available shelter.
For larger animals like horses, hydration needs increase significantly in hot weather. Brad Stauffer, a horse trainer and co-owner of Legacy Stables at the Aiken Training Track, notes that horses require approximately 10-15 gallons of fresh drinking water per day. “My horses have two buckets in their stalls overnight, and they’re within a couple of inches of the bottom every morning,” he shared. Stauffer also emphasizes the importance of complementary feeding strategies, such as providing moist grain and electrolyte supplements, to aid hydration.
Cooling Measures for Working Dogs
The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office has implemented various measures to protect its canine employees during the hot months. Maj. Jason Griffin explained that cooling vests are utilized for the dogs, and training sessions are typically scheduled for early morning to minimize heat exposure. Officers closely monitor their animals for signs of heat stress during calls.
For dogs that remain at the shelter, special accommodations have been made. The agency’s bloodhounds reside in kennels equipped with shade and sprinklers to help them stay cool. These kennels feature concrete patios, offering the dogs options to stay dry or enjoy a refreshing mist.
Another critical issue raised by local advocates is the dangers of leaving pets in parked cars. According to Dr. Holly Woltz, a retired veterinarian, even a few minutes in a locked vehicle can be fatal for pets. “I think it’s basically kind of sad that we have to repeat this constantly, but we do,” she lamented. Dr. Woltz urges pet owners to leave their animals at home rather than risk their lives in a hot car.
As summer progresses, the Aiken community continues to advocate for safer conditions for pets, urging owners to take proactive steps to protect their furry companions. Whether through creative hydration solutions, proper shelter, or awareness of the risks associated with heat, the message is clear: keeping pets safe in the summer heat is a shared responsibility.