Dr. Estheimer on Tucson Now: Essential Safety Tips for Your Southern Arizona Pet

We're incredibly proud to share that our very own Dr. Michele Estheimer recently appeared on "Tucson Now" to discuss a topic close to all our hearts: Keeping Your Pet Safe in Southern Arizona! Her valuable insights help our community ensure their beloved companions can thrive happily and safely in our unique desert environment.
You can watch Dr. Estheimer's full interview here: ​

Inspired by her appearance, we wanted to underscore some crucial safety considerations for every pet owner in Marana and throughout Southern Arizona. Our beautiful desert landscape, while stunning, presents specific challenges that require awareness and proactive care.
Beating the Arizona Heat: A Top Priority
The intense Arizona sun is no joke, especially for our furry friends who can't tell us when they're overheating.

• Never Leave Pets in Cars: Even for a minute. Temperatures inside a vehicle can skyrocket to deadly levels incredibly quickly.
• Limit Outdoor Exercise: During hot months, restrict walks and playtime to early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler.
• Pavement Burns: Asphalt and even concrete can become scorching hot and burn your pet's paw pads. If it's too hot for your hand or bare foot for 5 seconds, it's too hot for their paws.
• Provide Ample Shade and Water: Ensure constant access to fresh, cool water and shady resting spots, whether at home or on the go.
• Recognize Heatstroke: Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, stumbling, and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, seek immediate veterinary attention from Tangerine Pet Clinic.

Desert Dwellers: Coexisting Safely with Local Wildlife
Our region is home to fascinating wildlife, but some can pose a threat to curious pets.

• Snakes: Rattlesnakes are prevalent. Keep dogs on leash during walks, especially in natural desert areas. Consider rattlesnake avoidance training. If a bite occurs, keep your pet calm and seek veterinary care immediately.
• Scorpions & Spiders: While not all are deadly, stings and bites can be painful and cause allergic reactions. Keep your yard clear of debris where they might hide.
• Coyotes: Especially dangerous for smaller pets. Never leave small dogs or cats unattended outside, particularly at dawn or dusk. Ensure your yard is securely fenced.
• Sonoran Desert Toads (Colorado River Toads): These toads secrete a potent toxin through their skin that can be fatal if ingested or licked by a pet. Be vigilant after rains when they are most active.
• Gila Monsters: Though reclusive, their bite is venomous. Keep pets away if encountered.

Plant Perils: Toxic Flora in Our Backyards and Beyond
Many common desert plants can be toxic to pets.

• Sago Palms, Oleander, and some succulents/cacti are among the culprits.
• Familiarize yourself with toxic plants and ensure your yard is a safe space. The ASPCA has an excellent online database of toxic and non-toxic plants.

Monsoon Season Smarts
While bringing much-needed rain, monsoons also present unique challenges.

• Flash Floods: Be aware of washes and low-lying areas during and after storms.
• Increased Pest Activity: Moisture can bring out more insects and toads.
• Valley Fever: This fungal infection is more prevalent after dust storms often associated with monsoons. Be aware of symptoms like coughing, fever, lethargy, and weight loss.

Year-Round Vigilance: Parasites and Prevention

• Fleas and Ticks: These pests are present year-round in Arizona. Consistent, veterinarian-approved prevention is crucial.
• Heartworm Disease: Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm is a serious and potentially fatal condition. Year-round prevention is recommended.
• Talk to us at Tangerine Pet Clinic about the best preventative medications for your pet’s lifestyle.

Your Partners in Pet Safety
At Tangerine Pet Clinic, your pet's safety and well-being are our top priorities. Dr. Estheimer's appearance on "Tucson Now" underscores our commitment to empowering you with the knowledge to protect your furry family members. We encourage you to watch her interview for more detailed advice!
Q&A: Southern Arizona Pet Safety

• Q: What are the most common heat-related emergencies you see at Tangerine Pet Clinic?
  • A: Heatstroke is definitely a primary concern during our hotter months. We also see burnt paw pads from hot pavement. Early recognition and intervention are key, so knowing the signs and taking preventative measures is crucial.
• Q: My dog loves exploring. How can I best protect him from snakes on trails?
  • A: Always keep your dog on a leash, stick to marked trails, and be vigilant about where your dog is sniffing. Rattlesnake avoidance training can be very beneficial for dogs that frequent desert areas. And, of course, know where your nearest emergency vet is located.
• Q: Are there any pet-safe ways to deter pests like scorpions from my yard?
  • A: Keeping your yard tidy by removing debris, woodpiles, and overgrown vegetation can reduce hiding spots. Sealing cracks in your home’s foundation can also help. For specific pest control products, ensure they are pet-safe and consult with a professional.
• Q: What should I do if I think my pet has ingested part of a Sonoran Desert Toad?
  • A: This is a true emergency. Immediately and thoroughly rinse your pet’s mouth out with a gentle stream of water (pointing their head downwards so they don’t swallow the water) and get to a veterinarian without delay.

Stay Safe and Enjoy Our Beautiful Desert!
Living in Southern Arizona with pets can be a wonderful experience. By taking these precautions and staying informed, you can ensure many happy and healthy years together.
For more personalized advice on keeping your pet safe, or if you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us at Tangerine Pet Clinic. We're here to help!
Call to Action: Protect your pet year-round! Schedule a wellness check-up at Tangerine Pet Clinic today to discuss tailored preventative care and safety strategies for your furry friend in Southern Arizona. Call us at 520-848-3644 to book your appointment!
Don't forget to watch Dr. Estheimer's interview on "Tucson Now" for more great tips!