For pet owners in Arizona, it’s important to remain aware of all the hazards that can be a source of harm to your pet.
This is especially true for dog owners. While many animals can have a happy life inside a large home, every dog has a need to get outdoors, explore, play, and get some exercise. This means that if you own a dog in Arizona, there is a higher chance that they will come across these hazards.
But that’s not to say that you shouldn’t own a dog in Arizona. On the contrary, Arizona is a pet-loving and pet-friendly state, with good dog insurance plans available to cover you and your dog should the worst happen. As with anywhere, however, it’s important to remain aware of the state-specific hazards and do everything in your power to avoid having to use those plans.
With this in mind, here are 5 of the most common dog hazards for Arizona dog owners to be aware of:
Wild Animals
Perhaps the most common hazards in Arizona are the wild animals, with the worst culprit being coyotes. The reason they are so dangerous is because, in many ways, they are master manipulators.
There have been several incidents in which one coyote has feigned injury, howling to get a dog’s attention and to lower its guard before the pack attacks when the dog gets too close. To prevent this, it’s important to supervise your dog when they’re outside and don’t forget to put them on a leash when going for walks. Other wild animals to look out for in Arizona include bears, wild cats, and gray wolves.
Snakes And Critters
With Arizona being a desert state, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of snakes around. With 13 species of rattlesnakes, as well as other critters like scorpions and spiders, it’s important to keep an eye out and make sure your dog never gets too close.
Remember, cats are not the only curious animals! Dogs can be just as curious and, if we might say so, a little more reckless, so they will get into trouble if they’re left to their own devices.
Bats And Other Flying Predators
You don’t have to read Cujo to know that bats are dangerous to dogs. There are plenty of cases of dogs catching infections from biting – or getting bitten – by a bat, so it’s crucial that you remain aware of the dangers that they bring.
For instance, in Arizona, exhausted bats will often take refuge in yards or garages after a monsoon storm. If you find a bat in or near your property, make sure you keep your dog away until it regains its strength and leaves.
Hot Weather And Cold Weather
Heatstroke is a common cause of death for dogs around the world, let alone in Arizona, which has an average summer of 107 Fahrenheit. If you are travelling with your dog in a car, make sure to keep all of the windows open and bring plenty of water to keep them hydrated. Leaving your dog in a car – even with the windows open – is also a big no-no.
We should also mention that Arizona is known for its extreme temperatures in both directions, with some nights known to have passed below freezing. Hyperthermia is also a leading cause of death in dogs, so make sure they’re indoors overnight and consider buying a sweater for short-haired dogs to wear during colder walks.
Toxic Plants And Fungi
In the Sonoran desert alone, there are around 2,000 different species of plant, and nearly all of them are toxic and dangerous to pets. Once again, it’s important to let your dog investigate new things, but don’t let them get too close to plants – especially if they are a young puppy who likes to investigate with their mouths! As well as this, you have to remain aware of cacti.
The cholla cactus, in particular, breaks off in sections if stepped or jumped on by a dog. This means that when the dog tries to remove it, they can end up making the problem worse. Cactus spines have been known to enter the bloodstream when stood on or bitten, so if your dog does have an incident, make sure to take them to the veterinarian immediately.
Looking at the weather again, it’s also important to remain aware of storms in the area. Dust storms can whip up and carry fungi spores, which can be deadly for your dog if inhaled. The monsoon season in Arizona can also carry dangerous spores. Although it’s difficult to avoid this kind of condition, keeping your dog inside during any kind of storm can reduce the risk!
