How to Be a Responsible Pet Owner

Beautify CNMI! Animal Welfare Committee and PAWS have joined efforts to created a list of quick tips on how to be a better pet owner. One tip will be published weekly, but the entire print out can be obtained at the PAWS website at www.paws-saipan.org.

RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERSHIP - TIP OF THE DAY:

Warm in Saipan Weather:

In Saipan’s warm climate, pets are at high risk for overheating. Even if your animals are outdoors, you’ll want to be watchful of danger signs. Here are some simple pointers to keep your dog or cat cool.

• Water: The most important way to prevent your dog from overheating is to make sure you have clean water available. Dogs and cats have a higher body temperature than ours; they get hot long before we do. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion. In dogs, a couple of signs are rapid panting and a bright red tongue; in cats, signs are panting and dark red gums, among others.
• When taking your pet to the beach, provide a shaded spot and plenty of fresh drinking water. Be sure to rinse them off after they have been in the salt water.
• Make sure there's always plenty of shade available for a pet staying outside the house. A properly constructed doghouse is best. Bring your pet inside or make sure they have shade during the heat of the day. Always provide plenty of cool, clean water.
• Watch out for antifreeze coolant leaking from your vehicle. Animals are attracted to the sweet taste of coolant. As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly to a cat, and less than one tablespoon can kill a 20-pound dog. Consider using animal-friendly products that use propylene glycol rather than those containing ethylene glycol.
• A clean coat can help to prevent summer skin problems, so keep your pet well groomed. If she has a heavy coat, shaving your dog's hair to a 1-inch length will help prevent overheating. But don't shave your dog's fur down to the skin; this robs her of protection from the sun. A cat should be brushed frequently.