SAFETY TIPS FOR YOU PETS

Lynette Jelinek, community-services division manager for the Glendale Fire Department, teaches the community about keeping pets safe during the hot summer months. Here are some of her tips: Recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke: a body temperature between 104 and 110 degrees, excessive panting, a dark or bright red tongue, and staggering. If your pet has any of these symptoms, give it water, get it in shade and take it to the vet. Keep bugs away. Keep grassy areas where your pets play cut short, and always read the warning labels on fertilizers so they aren’t a danger to your pets. Talk to your vet about protecting your pets from fleas, ticks and other insects that are prevalent in the summer months. Beware of antifreeze. In the hot weather, antifreeze can leak from cars and be tempting for pets to drink. Pay attention to any that might have come from your vehicle or a neighbor’s car. Ask your vet if your pet needs sunscreen. Those with short, fine hair and pink skin are at a higher risk of sunburn. Never use human sunscreen on pets, which can be dangerous to them if ingested. Keep a close eye on your pets near water, even if they are strong swimmers. If you plan to go boating, look into a doggie life preserver. Glendale Police K9 Unit. Design Graphix from Sun City West will bring its Pet Rescue Stickers for pet owners to place on their windows at home. The stickers alert first responders during an emergency that there are pets in the home.

The first 300 pets to arrive at the event will enjoy Frosty Paws frozen treats, courtesy of Papa Ed’s. Vendors offering pet services will be present, and each vendor will have watering stations available, but owners are also encouraged to bring water for themselves and their pets.

Sun Valley Animal Shelter, the event’s charity component, will hold a food and supply drive at Dog Days of Summer and be involved in various raffles. The event will also feature a mobile vet service, offering $15 vaccinations and microchipping for $25.