Keeping your dogs safe in the summer heat

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The summer heat can be unbearable at times and even dangerous for people, as well as pets.

With temperatures in the triple digits, it's best to find more indoor activities for our furry friends.

Now that summer temps are here to stay, we have to be careful not to over-exercise our dogs and find other ways for them to stay active and safe.

A local dog owner who is experiencing the change of weather themselves after moving from Virginia to Arizona tells us how she keeps her dog cool during the summer.

“If we take them for a walk it will have to be very, very early. We don’t take them in the car, we don’t go anywhere with them ‘cause it’s just way too hot," said Sawyer.

Many owners are getting creative to keep pet activity levels high without having to go outdoors.

Some use puzzle feeders, sniffing mats or even treadmills to burn off energy, but always stay cautious if you are letting your dog on the treadmill without an expert.

Executive Director for the Humane Society of Yuma, Annette Lagunas, shares her opinion on putting dogs on treadmills.

“I don’t know anything about that. I guess treadmills with pets would be safe if you know what you’re doing," said Lagunas.

According to PETA, in 2021, the U.S. faced 59 dog deaths and 145 dog rescues due to being left inside a hot car.

“Well, we need to just leave our pets at home or what happens if your pet was to accidentally jump on the dash and turn the air conditioning off," said Lagunas.

Local dog training facility, The Southern Dog, offers in-home training where they let your dog on a treadmill and pool to burn that energy off.

Always leave your dogs at home during the summer or with a trusted friend.

On a 90-degree day, a car can reach 110 degrees inside within 10 minutes and 130 degrees within 30 minutes.