Living in the desert has many advantages for pet owners. Many common pests found in wetter climates like ticks, heartworm and fleas can't survive in the desert heat. However, the climate can be a double edged sword for many pet owners. The desert climate brings its own dangers to pets, even in the winter months. There are also several native creatures that can harm or even kill your pet, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. Of course with a few simple precautions and some common sense, you can make sure your pet is safe and healthy.
Weather
Despite the relatively mild winters, temperatures can get below freezing in the winter months. Pets should be housed indoors at night. During the summer, your pets must have access to plenty of water and shade. A pet without water during the heat of the day can die within just two hours. A dog can't be left outside during the summer without access to a cool area. They can get severe heat stroke in just a few hours. If you take your dog with you on errands, you have to be careful if you leave them in the car. Even when the temperature outside is only 80 degrees, the inside of your car can reach 120 degrees in just 10 minutes. Make sure you park in full shade and have plenty of ventilation inside of your vehicle if you can't take your pet with you. And the shorter the time your pet is in the car by themselves, the better.
Pests
There are several poisonous insects and reptiles that are present in most desert climates. While not often found in the city, if you live on the outskirts or near recent construction, you might find them migrating into your yard. If you live in the western part of the United States, rattlesnakes are fairly common. Normally they will avoid populated areas and people, but will bite if they feel threatened. While there is a treatment for bites, they can be fatal to your pets if not treated in time. Another poisonous desert denizen is the Gila monster. Typically they will try to run from a cat or dog and their bite is not usually fatal to a pet, but can be very painful.
There are a variety of poisonous insects and spiders native to most desert climates. Scorpions, millipedes, plus black widows and Brown Recluse spiders are usually found throughout the southwest United States. There stings and bites can be fatal to most pets. Make sure you inspect your pets outside environment on a regular basis to make sure no unwanted neighbors have moved in.
Talk to your Vet
The most important thing to do is speak to your vet, especially if you are new to the area. They'll be able to advise you of any local issues you need to watch out for as well as any preventative measures you can take. If you plan on traveling outside of the city to a nearby recreation area, be sure to ask your vet if your dog needs any additional vaccines or other preventative measures. The climate may be different there, allowing pests to live that aren't normally found in the city. By following these few simple rules, you'll be doing all you can to make sure your pet is safe and healthy in their new home.
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