Hot Dogs (and Cats)
Protecting your pet from the heat
Train in Vain
How a dog’s breed can affect its ability to learn
Lost and Pound
Why microchipping your pet matters
How you can help your pets beat the East County summer heat
As summer approaches and temperatures rise, the risk of heat stroke, sunstroke, and other heat-related illnesses increases, not just for humans, but for our furry friends as well. How can you keep your pets from overheating this summer?
Linda Devincenzi, the hospital manager at Brentwood Family Pet Care, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the University of London’s Royal Veterinary College offer these tips.
First, Devincenzi said, walk your pets or otherwise allow them outside during the morning and evening, when the sun is not as intense and the air and ground temperatures are lower. High air temperatures increase the risk of heat stress, while high ground temperatures can damage pets’ sensitive paw pads. Meteorologists say that 3-6 p.m. is the hottest part of the day because of a longer period of the sun heating the ground.
If your animal must be outside on a hot day, provide plenty of shade and water, and
train them to seek shelter from the heat themselves when needed, Devincenzi said. She also recommends putting a mist machine outside to provide cooling mist for your animal.
Short-nosed dogs like bulldogs and pugs should be kept indoors at all times during the summer, according to Devincenzi, because their shortened respiratory tracts cannot dissipate body heat as well as those of longernosed dogs.
Do not leave pets in a hot car. If you have to leave them in your vehicle for any length of time, it must be with the air conditioner running. Devincenzi warned that, without the AC, pets can succumb to heat stress rapidly. It
With these tips, both you and your pets won’t have to sweat about the effects of the summer heat.
increased heart rate; and even vomiting or diarrhea. This can progress to lethargy, confusion, physical weakness, and seizures if not caught early. Overweight, thick-coated, and very young or old animals, as well as those with pre-existing conditions, are the most susceptible to heat stress.
If your pet begins showing signs of heat stress, Devincenzi says to call the nearest veterinary Emergency Room immediately, even before you start to cool the animal off. VCA East Bay Veterinary Emergency is the closest ER to East County at 1312 Sunset Drive, Antioch, and can be contacted at (925) 754-5001.
is not unusual to see dogs and other animals left in vehicles while their owners attend to other business. However, when conditions are too hot or too cold, or if the animal is not left proper sustenance or ventilation, the animal could be at risk for serious injuries or even death. As a result, it is illegal according to state law to leave a pet unattended in a motor vehicle under conditions that endanger the health or well-being of the animal.
Learn to recognize the signs of heat stress in your pets. According to the Royal Veterinary College, In both dogs and cats, symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, and thirst; redness of the gums; agitation;
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Once you’ve called the ER, the Royal Veterinary College says to take the animal to a shaded location, offer them water to drink, and begin lowering their body temperature by pouring water of a temperature lower than their body over them and letting a fan blow over their body to increase the rate of temperature change; this is called the evaporation method. If you don’t have a fan or other cooling device, use cool--not cold -- water only and let it evaporate off of them unassisted. If you have a young, healthy dog, you can also immerse them in cold water to cool them.
With these tips, both you and your pets won’t have to sweat about the effects of the summer heat.
CONNOR ROBLES
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
How to get house cats some exercise
Cats make beloved pets for any number of reasons. Many pet owners love their cats for their quirky personalities, while others like the companionship of an animal that does not require the same level of hands-on attention as a dog.
Cat health can be easy to take for granted, as felines are generally quiet and many prefer to spend ample time alone. However, pet owners should take an active role in the health of their cats, and that includes ensuring the felines get enough exercise. The United Kingdom-based People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) notes that cats that stay fit and remain active are less likely to become obese and develop diabetes and arthritis.
Cat owners know that the very quirks that make cats such lovable pets also can make it hard to get them to do things they won’t necessarily want to do. But the following are some ways to ensure cats get enough exercise to stay fit and healthy.
♦ Some pre-exercise observation can help lay a strong foundation for feline fitness sessions. The PDSA advises cat owners to identify which toys cats seem to like best and then use those
toys during exercise sessions to entice participation. Use one or two toys each session and swap them every few days so cats do not grow bored with their fitness routines.
♦ Incentivize physical activity. Much like dogs respond to treats during behavior training, cats are more likely to engage in exercise when sessions end with a reward. PetMD notes some postexercise praise and a few healthy treats can encourage cats to participate willingly in exercise sessions.
♦ Don’t overdo it. Cats are not humans, so felines’ fitness sessions don’t need to mirror their owners’ lengthy workouts. Play sessions intended to get cats to exercise can last between 10 and 15 minutes each. PetMD recommends limiting sessions to two or three per day for older cats, while as many as 10 sessions per day can be effective for younger cats.
♦ WebMD recommends letting cats sink their teeth and claws into toys during a workout. This type of engagement satisfies cats and will
Cats can benefit from routine exercise just as much as their owners, and there are several fun, and even some amusing, ways to encourage felines to enthusiastically engage in physical activity.
encourage them to embrace exercise sessions. Keep some replacements at the ready in case cats are especially enthusiastic.
♦ Employ a laser pointer. Cat owners are undoubtedly aware and likely amused by how much cats are drawn to laser pointers. Make the most of that inability to resist laser light by using a laser pointer during a cat’s workout routine. Cats will chase the pointer all over the room, all the while getting some beneficial exercise.
PEST TALK WITH LIBERTY
By Robert Ayres, Owner of Liberty Pest Services
BRENTWOOD RESIDENTS BATTLE WATER BUGS INVADING GARAGES
Brentwood residents are dealing with an increase in a particularly stubborn pest: the Oriental cockroach, often called the “water bug.” These insects are making their way into garages, basements, and crawl spaces, leaving homeowners frustrated and concerned.
Unlike other cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches prefer cool, damp environments. As temperatures rise, they migrate indoors in search of moisture, slipping in through foundation cracks, gaps around pipes, and open drains. Once inside, they can quickly multiply and spread harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, posing health risks to your household.
To help prevent infestations, it’s important to address moisture issues by repairing any leaking pipes or faucets. Cracks and entry points around the exterior of your home should be sealed tightly. Garages and storage areas should be kept clean and free of clutter, as these pests love to hide in dark corners. Trash should
be stored in sealed containers and removed regularly to avoid attracting bugs.
If you’re already seeing signs of a problem, calling in a professional might be your best bet. Liberty Pest Services, a locally owned and veteran-operated company, provides expert pest control solutions throughout East Contra Costa. With more than 20 years of experience, they use safe, effective treatments to eliminate Oriental cockroaches and protect your home from future invasions.
For more information or to schedule an inspection, contact Liberty Pest Services at (925) 628-3030 or visit libertypestservices. com. Acting early can keep your home bug free, and give you peace of mind.
Pest control service for homes & businesses, Real estate inspections and termite treatments, Rodent exclusion and inspections. Licensed – Insured – Bonded. Opr#14018
Contra Costa Animal Services to host second annual free adoption day on June 7
Contra Costa Animal Services (CCAS) will join more than 150 California animal shelters in holding free adoption events as part of the second annual California Adopt-a-Pet Day.
The county’s adoption event is on June 7 at the shelter, 4800 Imhoff Place, in Martinez, from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. It will include free adoptions of shelter pets ($25 licensing fee may apply) and activities throughout the day.
“Adopting a pet is not just about bringing an animal into your family – it’s about giving them a chance at a life filled with love and care,” said CCAS Director Ben Winkleblack.
CCAS’s Adopt-A-Pet Day event will include more than just free adoptions. Participants will enjoy a fun day featuring:
♦ Free pet adoptions
♦ Adoptions from local rescue groups Cal-
Relocating to a new Brentwood location later this year!
Paws, Contra Costa Humane Society, Rhodie’s Rescue, and Hugs for Harry
♦ Free dog nail trims by Just Dawgin It Pet Groomers
♦ Dog training demonstrations
♦ Facepainting for kids
♦ An on-site ice cream truck
♦ Information and demonstrations from local pet vendors Concord Feed, Trupanion Pet Insurance, and dog trainer, Avery Luttropp.
♦ Information on how to become a pet foster for CCAS
Interested adopters and fosters can view CCAS’s available pets at www.ccasd.org, or come to meet them at the event.
To view animals available for adoption: www.contracosta.ca.gov/2424/ Available-Animals
Foster information: www.contracosta. ca.gov/6730/Animal-Foster-Programs
Exploring East County with your four-legged friend is a breeze. From dog parks and U-pick orchards to pet-welcoming patios, there’s something for every dog lover. Here’s a roundup of some of the Delta’s most pet-friendly destinations.
Brentwood:
Brentwood is home to four dog parks, and miles of trails where leashed dogs – and their owners – can get plenty of exercise.
♦ King Park, at 1379 Bauer Way, features two dog play areas – one for small dogs and one for large. Both areas feature play apparatus made specifically for canine companions and feature benches for humans to relax and watch their pets. Water fountains for pets and owners are available, as are “Mutt Mitts” to assist in keeping the facility free of pet waste.
♦ Dakota Park, at 480 Ridgewood Court, is a 4.7-acre park with a half-mile walking trail connecting to other trail systems in Brentwood. This park also has two dog park areas divided for “smaller” and “larger” dogs, with benches and shade structures for pet owners.
Outside of the dog play areas, the park features a turf area with picnic tables and barbecues.
♦ Pioneer Park, at 2031 Miwok Ave. in Brentwood, was recently completed and sits in the heart of Trilogy at the Vineyards, and adjacent to Los Medanos College’s new campus. Like King and Dakota parks, this one also has trails, “large” and “small” dog areas, and even some equipment for pups to play on.
♦ Magpie Park will be the city’s fourth dog park and it opened this year. Located off Empire Avenue behind Winco Foods, at 2840 Michalia Lane. The park will have all the perks needed to keep its visitors happy, including two areas for big and small dogs.
♦ Four Legs Brewing, a craft beer spot at 2010 Elkins Way, in Brentwood, calls itself both “dog friendly” and “family friendly.”
Opened in 2021 by Michelle and Erik
Bacher, it’s meant to be a “home away from home” for those who love beer and dogs. Four Legs Brewing regularly features food trucks and offers a range of brews from IPAs to Pilsners. For more information, visit www. fourlegsbrewing.com.
♦ Diablo Cherries, a small cherry orchard at 3150 Sellers Ave., allows visitors to bring their dogs while their owners pick cherries. Coowner Emily Benz said one of the advantages of being a small farm is flexibility in the rule book.
“We are 100% u-pick, so we don’t have to follow some of the same practices that the commercial orchards do,” Benz said. “As long as the dogs are leashed and well behaved, they can come in the orchard. We have observed that people want to bring their pets with them more and more, and we are happy to welcome them.”
Benz noted thus far, all guests have been respectful and conscientious, cleaning up after their pets and creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere with their dogs. For more information, visit www.diablocherries. com.
While the idea of strolling through an orchard with the family pet may sound appealing, Harvest Time President Jessica Enos said dogs should probably stay home.
“There are many farms that cannot allow pets due to food safety restrictions, and
our summers can be hot, making it unsafe to leave an animal in your car,” Enos said.
♦ Marsh Creek Trail: Dogs and people alike love the 6.5 paved miles of the Marsh Creek Regional Trail, which winds along its namesake from Vineyards Parkway in southwestern Brentwood to Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley.
Maintained by the East Bay Regional Parks District (EBRPD), there are plans in the works to extend the trail three miles farther south to Round Valley Regional Preserve. Park
District Supervising Naturalist Wyatt Moore said his district is working with state and local agencies to extend the trail.
“The preliminary engineering study was completed and filed,” he said. “The park district will continue to partner with California State Parks and seek grant funding to develop the paved regional trail. That will cost about $5.5 million.” For more information, visit www.ebparks.org.
Discovery Bay:
The Discovery Bay Community Center, 1601 Discovery Bay Blvd., renovated its dog park last year. Parks and landscape manager Monica Gallo said there are areas for both small and large dogs.
“Get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather with your four-legged friend at the Discovery Bay Community Center Dog Park,” Gallo said. “This is a great gathering spot for your fur buddy to make new friends.” Oakley:
Koda Dog Park at 100 Oxford Drive, opened in 2018, and is named for the Oakley Police Department’s first canine officer. The park was a goal of the city for many years before coming to fruition and features separate play areas for big and small dogs. There is also a special agility training area for dogs at the northeast quadrant of the park, and a shade structure over the adjacent picnic benches and barbecue pits.
While you’re away, your dog can remain happy in his/her home.
We’ll feed and care for your “puppy” with lots of love.
We’ll also spend the night!
Press file photo
King Park in Brentwood is one of many local spots that residents can take their fourlegged friends.
Tap Into Healthier Water
Family
Dogs are beloved members of the family. However, pet owners should practice proper etiquette when dogs are out and about. •
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Dog parents should practice pet etiquette
People have grown accustomed to treating their dogs like members of the family, and that means that dogs increasingly are being brought along on errands, traveling with their human companions, and even being brought into the workplace.
It’s important for pet parents to always be mindful of their dogs’ behavior when out and about, or even hanging closer to home. Dog owners can follow these dog etiquette pointers to be responsible pet owners.
♦ Get permission from your employer before taking a dog to work. Be mindful of people’s dog fears or allergies and be respectful of others no matter how much fun it might be to bring your dog into a public space. The warm and fuzzy feelings dog owners feel for their dogs are not necessarily shared by everyone.
♦ Quiet nuisance barking. Do not leave your dog outside unattended for a long time. This can cause what the American Kennel Club characterizes as boredom barking. Quiet your dog if he or she is barking, or bring the pet indoors.
♦ Always leash your dog. Some people are not comfortable around dogs. And even if your dog is friendly, others met on walks or outings
may not be. To prevent uncomfortable situations or even dog bites, it’s best to always leash your dog. Choose a leash short enough to prevent your dog from jumping on passersby.
♦ Ask permission first. Check to see if your dog is allowed to greet people or other dogs. If someone says, “no,” respect that answer.
♦ Clean up after your pet. Always have waste bags at the ready so you can clean up after your dog. This also applies indoors, should your dog have an accident inside a pet-friendly store.
♦ Be mindful of shopping with pets. Many stores do not allow dogs inside, but employees may be hesitant to approach pet owners about such policies. Many stores allow only trained service dogs that comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act. Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Service animal designations are exclusive to dogs. However, a number of people have “emotional support animals,” which are not recognized as service animals. As a general rule of thumb, know a store’s policy on non-service animal pets before visiting. And, when shopping at food stores, it’s best to leave the dog at home.
♦ Train your dog. A dog that knows basic obedience training will behave better in the community. If you are having trouble training your dog alone, consider working with an experienced dog trainer.
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Pets bring a lot of joy to people’s lives. Is it any wonder that 66 percent of households in the United States, or 86.9 million homes, owned a pet, according to the American Pet Products Association? In fact, 97 percent of pet owners consider their pets to be family members.
Introducing a pet into a home is not a decision to take lightly. In addition to the considerable financial investment associated with pet ownership, owners must devote time and energy into safeguarding the well-being of their pets. That includes reducing the chances the animal becomes lost. The Animal Humane Society says it’s estimated one in three pets will go missing in their lifetime. Many of those pets will not be reunited with their owners.
But people can do their part to protect pets from escaping or getting lost. Here are some proactive steps to take.
♦ Get pet identification. Take a multilayered approach to identifying the pet, such as name and contact information printed on a collar tag. In addition, have the pet microchipped. A microchip is a small device about the size of a grain of rice that is implanted just under the skin.
The microchip can be programmed to emit identification information about the animal when scanned. Pet parents should routinely check and update the chip’s data if they move or if there is a change in phone number or pet ownership.
♦ Consider a GPS-enabled collar. Another great tool is attaching a GPS-enabled device to a pet collar. In the event the pet cannot be found, pet owners can track the animal’s location using a mobile phone.
♦ Secure the home and yard. Check for any apparent points of weakness around the home or yard. Is there a large gap between the bottom of the fence and the lawn that needs remedying? Is the gate latching securely or does it pop open? Are all window screens secure, or could they be pushed out
Pet owners can take steps to prevent their furry friends from running away and getting lost.
bolt. If they start to run off, training can help pets develop adequate recall skills to come back when called. Trainers also can teach techniques to quell pets’ desires to dart when a house or fence door is open.
from the inside? Curious animals can quickly turn into escape artists, especially if there is a wild animal to chase or a scent they want to investigate. Securing the home can cut down on potential problems.
♦ Use obedience training. Working with a certified dog trainer or cat behaviorist can teach the pet to curb an instinct to
♦ Choose well-fitting collars and harnesses. A collar can be rendered useless if the pet is able to slip its head out, especially when a little pressure is applied. A martingale collar is a special collar that will safely tighten when the dog tries to pull away. When the dog loosens up the pull, the collar goes back to its comfortable position. Harnesses may be even more secure for escape artists because they attach around the midsection rather than the neck.
♦ Use leashes on pets. The animal should be on a leash whenever it is taken outdoors where there is no fence or secured area. Even the most well-trained pets may run off from time to time. Leash laws exist in many areas for both the dog’s and people’s protection.
How breed affects a dog’s trainability
Every dog lover has a different set of criteria for what they look for in a dog. Some make size a priority, preferring a pooch who is small enough to be a constant companion. Others seek a dog that has shorter fur for less grooming upkeep. Still, some people prefer a breed that is known for flashy looks that will turn heads on neighborhood walks.
Trainability is another consideration. Many veterinarians attest that positive reinforcement training is one of the tools to keep a dog happy, healthy and well-behaved. Training also can offset behavioral issues that may make spending time in and out of a home with a dog less enjoyable, thus reducing the chances the pet may be surrendered to a shelter. The American Kennel Club says that each dog breed has a distinct personality, instinctive drive and genetic heritage.
These factors can affect trainability:
Highly trainable dog breeds
According to renowned dog researcher Dr. Stanley Coren, certain breeds are more trainable than others.
♦ German shepherd: There is a good reason this breed is regularly used for police and military work. The German shepherd is a workhorse and wants to please.
♦ Border collie: This breed can learn quickly and will be eager to learn more.
♦ Poodle: Although that curly coat may lead a person to believe this breed is more fluff than brains, quite the opposite is true. Poodles are keen to work and willing to please.
♦ Collie: Collies are known for their unwavering devotion and loyalty, not to mention trainability.
♦ Golden retriever and Labrador retriever: Some of the most popular family dogs around, these retrievers tend to
be gentle, friendly, trainable, and eager to please.
♦ Rottweiler: This imposing pup is a natural protector that wants a job to do. That makes the Rottie highly trainable. Some dogs, such as hounds, beagles, huskies, and Akitas, are among the most challenging to train, according to experts. Such dogs’ focus may be on sensing prey or doing other things they find fun. But people should not grow discouraged if they have their hearts set on less-receptive-totraining breeds.
Mixed breed dogs
What can you expect if you have an Akita mixed with
a Golden retriever? Perhaps aloofness will mix with friendly exuberance and result in a mild-mannered pup. It often is challenging to determine the heritage of a mixed-breed dog with the hopes of gauging its willingness to be trained. “Mutts” tend to have more muted traits. However, if two highly trainable, active breeds comprise the DNA of a mixed-breed dog, that intense desire to work may be a negative in the home environment. Much like other factors regarding mixed-breed dogs, an owner won’t know what he or she is getting until spending time with the dog.
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