After almost three long years of having all of our fundraisers “on hold” because of COVID-19, the board of directors of the Central Aroostook Humane Society is happy to announce that our very popular “Toast to the Animals” is back on our schedule.
This fundraiser has become one of our biggest, most successful and, of course, most fun events. So mark your calendars for Oct. 8 and plan to come out and enjoy a fabulous evening celebrating our furry friends. More details to come later.
With the warmer temperatures upon us and the feeling that summer is finally arriving, it is always good to have a gentle reminder of what it takes to keep your pets safe and happy during the hot summer months.
Dogs love to romp around the great outdoors, so it is very important to check them for tick and bug bites. Even though Aroostook County has in the past been able to avoid tick problems, we feel they are here to some degree. When in the woods, walk on cleared trails, and avoid walking through tall grass and low brush in wooded areas, according to petmed.com.
Thoroughly check pets for ticks, and remember to check all areas, including between the toes and inside the ears. If one tick is found, check for more. Most importantly, never use insect repellents containing DEET because they are highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Here at the shelter, we know that dogs can suffer from sunstroke, so please watch your four-legged pal closely. Try to keep him out of the sun. Dogs cool themselves by panting, but if it is extremely hot, the dog cannot keep up.
Many dogs love to swim, but don’t leave them unattended because there are dogs that can’t swim.
Be careful when walking your dog and try to stay away from blacktop, as it can become very hot and the dog’s pads can become very painful.
Just as we get thirsty in hot weather, so do our dogs, so always keep them hydrated. Make sure your pet has fresh water each day and especially shade or a cool shelter to rest while outside.
Despite many warnings, people continue to leave their dogs in vehicles. They reason that they are only running a quick errand. If a dog’s internal temperature goes about 105.8 F, it is at risk of heatstroke, which only 50 percent of dogs survive. It doesn’t have to be a scorching hot day for this to happen. When it’s 71 degrees outside, the inside of a car can easily reach 116 degrees. Be smart — leave your pet home.
Lastly, during the hot summer there are wonderful events and activities in each of our communities, such as parades, fireworks and more. Please do your pet a favor and keep them home where it is safe, cool and without the stress of enduring crowds and loud noises.
Stop by the Central Aroostook Humane Society or check out our Facebook page for pets available for adoption. Be responsible – spay and neuter your pets.
Gloria J. Towle is the secretary and a board member for the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
