Due to the extreme heat that we are experiencing this summer, the Craig Police Department’s Animal Control Team is implementing a zero-tolerance policy for your pet’s health and safety.

Craig Colorado sits at 6,198 ft in elevation, so we feel the hot temperature's different than other places.

For your dog this means:

When the air temp is 77 degrees the man-made ground (pavement or assault) can sit at 143 degrees and can burn dogs paw pads in less than a minute.

Use the 7 second rule to determine if the ground is too hot. Place the back of your hand on the ground if you cannot hold it for 7 seconds it is too hot for your dog. You can also utilize the 2Hot4Paws — Is It Safe to Walk Your Dog? website, this will inform you if the ground is too hot as-well-as give you any time frames during the day that is safe to walk your dog.

This warning does not stop at walking your dog. If you have your dog outside, even in the shade at 85 degrees your dog can begin to show signs of heat exhaustion.

If your dog is showing signs of heat stress:

- Heavy panting and rapid breathing

- Drooling and thick saliva

- Red or Pale Gums

- Muscle spasms or tremors

You need to:

- Move the dog to a cooler environment

- Cool the dog gradually

- Monitor body temperature

If your dog is showing these signs seek help immediately:

- Disorientation or confusion

- Collapse

DO NOT give your dog water till their breathing has slowed down. 

DO NOT give your dog cold water to ingest. 

DO NOT give your dog a cold bath.

These rules are even more pertinent for Brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs, and Persian cats.

OWNERS WILL BE GIVEN A CITATION DIRECTLY TO CITY COURT

Craig municipal code for animal neglect 

6.40.010 - Neglect

"It shall be unlawful for the owner or custodian of any animal to deprive such animal of adequate nutrition, potable water available at all times, proper protection from the elements and extremes in temperature, opportunity for exercise, adequate veterinary care, grooming, socialization or otherwise neglect such animal in any manner as to endanger its health or cause it to suffer".

The Craig Police Department’s Animal Control Team want's what is best for your pets! 

Please call (970) 824-6501 if you need help with your pet or have any questions!