How You Can Protect Your Pets From Extreme Heat
Florida is in the middle of its hottest year in modern history, and there’s no relief on the horizon. Even in a state well-known for its warm weather, this current…
Florida is in the middle of its hottest year in modern history, and there’s no relief on the horizon. Even in a state well-known for its warm weather, this current onslaught of heat and humidity is staggering for people and their pets. So we thought we would share some tips to help protect your pet from the extreme heat.
Day in and day out, new records for heat and humidity are being set, especially in the central and southern parts of the state. Additional heat records are predicted across South Florida over the weekend.
So far this year, temperatures have averaged 3-5 degrees above normal in Florida, due in part to coverage of a widespread heat dome over the sunshine state that has produced heat indexes, which factor in humidity, of 100 to 110 degrees and higher. Source. Under these extreme conditions, your pets need special attention.
Here are some tips to protect your pet from extreme heat:
- Never leave pets in a parked car: On an 85-degree day, with the windows cracked a bit, the interior temperature will reach 102 degrees in 10 minutes, and 120 degrees after a half hour.
- Be aware of the effect of humidity on your pet: IF the humidity is too high, its harder for your pet to pant, which is how they stay cool. Move them inside.
- Limit outdoor exercise: Limit outdoor exercise to early morning or evening hours, when the sun is not as intense and temperatures are slightly lower.
- Don’t rely on a fan: They just don’t cool off pets as well as they do people.
- Keep your pet cool: Ample shade and water are essential if pet is outside. Fresh water. Cool water. Dog houses don’t help. They make things worse because they trap the heat. You can keep your pet from overheating with a cooling body wrap, vest or mat. If you pet doesn’t mind a bath, a cool soak is always a good idea
- Get your pet to a vet if there are signs of heatstroke: Heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, deep red or purple tongue are all signs of heatstroke.
- Higher risk: Animals that are very old, very young, overweight or not accustomed to exercise are at higher risk for heat stroke.
- Flat faces: Be aware that pets with flat faces – like boxers, pugs, or Persian cats – will have a much tougher time breathing in extreme heat.
The 7 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants In The Tampa Bay Area
It's always on dog-parent's mind whenever they go out. Can I bring my dog? With so many outdoor restaurants in the Tampa Bay area, a lot of places are accommodating to our four-legged babies. Some even have canine-friendly food on their menu. Whether you want to be near downtown Tampa or by the beach in St. Pete, we have the list of places to bring along your best friend.
We also have a list of the best dog bars in the Tampa Bay area. A lot of those places don't serve food but occasionally have food trucks. Also, dog bars may also require you register your dog to make sure they are healthy and non-aggressive. The best part about taking your pup to a dog-friendly restaurant is that you don't have to worry about that.
We went to Yelp to see what their recommendations are for the best dog friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay. They had a list of 10 places but we condensed it to our favorite 7 spots (and added a few of our own favorite places.) Another great hack is to download the BringFido app. This app will tell you any dog-friendly restaurant or hotel in your current area.
Here are our favorite 7 dog friendly restaurants in the Tampa Bay area
Ulele
Ulele is a great spot for dogs, kids, date night, or any occasion! Their beautiful shaded patio is the perfect place to hangout with your pup! Plus you can take them for a walk on Tampa's riverwalk after your meal.
World Of Beer
Any World of Beer welcomes dogs! We know the Westchase location will even let dogs hangout inside.
Riveters
Riveters outdoor patio is a great hangout spot for pups.
Salt Shack on the Bay
Enjoy waterfront views of Old Tampa Bay with your pup at Salt Shack on the Bay. This place is such a hidden gem in the Tampa Bay area. They have some of the best seafood and cocktails.
Irish 31
Irish 31 is one of the most dog-friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay! They even have a special canine casserole that you can order for your pup!
Clear Sky Draught House
Clear Sky Draught House in Dunedin has a huge patio that is perfect for doggos.
Buoys Waterfront Bar & Grill
If you and your pup are ever down in St. Pete beach head to Buoys Waterfront Bar & Grill. You can hangout on their upstairs patio for those perfect sunset views, or head to the bar downstairs. Just know your bartender might serve your dog first!
