Hot dogs

Now that you all know my love for hot dogs, you probably guessed what this blog would be about. *WRONG!* I got the idea for this blog today when I was at a gas station. A man from animal control was standing next to me as I filled up my 42 ounce cup of Pepsi - anyways, on his radio I heard a call about a dog that was left in a van for over an hour with the windows rolled up. It was 80 degrees today. I almost followed him to help rescue the dog.

Now, contrary to popular belief, I'm not a saint. Actually, while I was in the gas station Darrell was in my car! Two of my car windows were rolled down far (but not too far - he likes to *escape - story on this later in the blog). I did buy Darrell a cup of ice to lick.

Here is an article I found online about the dangers of leaving your pets in the car... even with the windows cracked! Please educate yourself and don't be afraid to call your local animal control!!!

Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car for any period of time. On a warm day, the temperature in a car can reach 120° F in a matter of minutes-even with the windows partially open. Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke or suffocation when trapped in high temperatures. This is what you should do if your pet is exposed to high temperatures:

• Be alert to signs of heat stress-heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
  
• If your pet has become overheated, you must lower his body temperature immediately.
  
• Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water all over her body to gradually lower her body temperature.
  
• Apply ice packs or cold towels to your pet's head, neck, and chest only.
  
• Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.
  
• Take your pet to a veterinarian right away-it could save your pet's life.
  

If you see an animal in a car exhibiting any signs of heat stress, call your local animal care and control agency or police department immediately!

You don't just expose your pet to the dangers of heat stress when you leave him in a car, you also expose him to pet theft. Thousands of pets are stolen each year from unattended cars.

I found this article on www.sevagrreat.org.

*Now on to the story about Darrell's escape. One day I stopped at a gas station. I had to run inside quick and get something (Laffy Taffy most likely). Darrell likes to be able to see me at all times so I parked right out front of the gas station doors. I rolled down the windows a little bit so he could breathe. As I was paying for my taffy I looked out to my car... and there was Darrell at the doors of the gas station. He could see me and he was jumping up and down at the door. He wanted his Momma!!! It made me laugh. It's always nice to feel wanted, even if it's by a Jack Russell Terrier.