Taking part in Bend Pet Parade? Safety key to fun

While tradition calls for plenty of fun at Bend’s Fourth of July Pet Parade, some precautions are necessary in summer temperatures, the parade hosts, Bend Park and Recreation District and the Humane Society of Central Oregon, advised Friday.

The holiday forecast is for morning parade-time temperatures in the low to mid 70s. While the 70s are comfortable for many pets to be outdoors, the parade hosts and its sponsor, Bend Pet Express, want parade participants’ pets to remain healthy and safe in the warm temperature.

Be prepared to adapt your parade plans. Some considerations include bringing a stuffed animal instead, using a wagon to pull your pet or, if needed, leaving the parade route if your pet demonstrates intolerance towards the heat.

“We all know the dangers of leaving a pet in a hot car, but there are heat concerns when our pets are outdoors,” said Dr. Crystal Bloodworth, DVM, of the Humane Society of Central Oregon.

“Dogs need to pant to cool themselves, as they do not sweat. This isn’t always enough, however, as cool water and shade can help. Paying attention to your pet while outdoors in the heat is critical to ensuring a fun day for everyone.” said Dr. Bloodworth.

Senior, obese, short muzzled dogs (Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, etc.) and long-haired breeds are discouraged in extreme heat

Tips for keeping your pet comfortable at the Pet Parade include:

• Before and after the parade, find a cool, shaded place to rest.

• Do not arrive too early: staging begins at 9:00 am; the parade starts at 10:00 am.

• Bring plenty of cool water for you and your pet. Water will be available at parade staging area and en route – just look for the orange flags.

• Allow dogs to cool off in the water pools at the staging area.

• Consider using booties to prevent paw injuries and tar from adhering to paw pads.

• Get creative and place your pet in a shaded, decorated stroller or wagon to keep them off of the warm asphalt.

• Watch for signs of your pet’s paw pads overheating or soreness – picking-up paws, seeking shade and avoiding walking by sitting or lying down.

• Do not leave your pet in the car, not even for a minute.

• Learn to recognize the signs of heat stroke: Faster, heavier panting; excessive thirst and/or drooling with hanging strands of saliva; whining or signs of agitation; decreased responsiveness; glassy eyes; increased pulse/ heartbeat; elevated body temperature and staggering, weakness, collapse, seizures and/or unconsciousness.

• If your pet shows heat-related symptoms, immediately go to the First Aid booth at the staging area, a nearby shaded area or a dog-friendly business that may let your dog cool in the air conditioned store so you can assess your pet’s condition.

If you think your pet will be challenged by warm temperatures, BPRD, the Humane Society of Central Oregon and Bend Pet Express encourage you to leave your pet at home.

Should you need any emergency veterinary services over the holiday weekend, the Animal Emergency Center in Bend will be open 24 hours a day from 5:00 pm on Thursday, June 30th to 8:00 am on Tuesday, July 5th. The clinic’s phone number is (541) 385-9110.

For additional information on the Pet Parade, visit bendparksandrec.org or call the Bend Park and Recreation District at (541) 389-7275.