Desert Heat & Pet Safety

Let’s be real: Lake Havasu sunshine is no joke. With temps soaring past 100°F in the summer, what feels like “a quick walk” to you can be dangerous (even fatal) for your pet. As a desert-loving community, we take heat safety seriously, especially when it comes to our four-legged family.

Here’s how to keep your pets safe, happy, and hydrated in the Havasu heat:

Know the Danger Zones

• Asphalt Temps Can Reach 150°F+: Test surfaces with your hand or use booties. Try the “7-second rule.”
• Hot Cars Kill in Minutes: Never leave pets unattended. Arizona law allows intervention.
• Dehydration Happens Fast: Panting, dry gums, lethargy. Carry water. Use collapsible bowls.
• Heatstroke Warning Signs: Heavy panting, glazed eyes, vomiting. Move to shade, wet paws/belly, go to vet.

Smart Tips for Safe Havasu Days

• Walk Early or Late: Before 9 a.m. or after sunset.
• Keep to the Shade: Parks with trees, grass, or dirt.
• Use Paw Protection: Dog booties or paw wax.
• Hydration Is Non-Negotiable: Water, and electrolyte drinks (check with vet).
• Never Leave Pets in RVs Without Cooling: Use AC; check generator backups.

Local Cooling Stations & Shady Rest Stops

Rotary Park – Tree-lined paths, grassy areas, and lake breezes. 📍 Google Map

London Bridge Beach – Morning access to water, benches, and a shaded dog park. 📍 Google Map

Dick Samp Memorial Park – Peaceful cool-down walks before noon. 📍 Google Map

Desert Pet Safety Upgrades

• Pet Cooling Bandanas – Wet and stay cold for hours.
• Clip-on Fans – Great for crates and pet strollers.
• Reflective Gear – For early morning or twilight walks.
• UV-Blocking Pet Sunglasses – Especially helpful for dogs prone to eye issues.

Helpful Resources & Links

Pet Heat Safety from ASPCA

AVMA Guide: Heat Stress in Pets

AZ Law: Pets in Vehicles

Musher’s Secret Paw Wax

Lake Havasu City Animal Control

What to Pack for Your Pet

• Collapsible Water Bowl – Portable hydration
• Bottled Water – Extra supply always
• Cooling Vest – For hot walks or hikes
• Booties or Paw Wax – Prevents burns
• ID Tags & Microchip Info – In case of emergency
• Towel/Wipes – For quick cool-downs
• Emergency Vet Contact – Saved on your phone (details in Tab 3)

Lake & Channel Safety for Swimming Pets

General Water Safety Tips

• Use a Dog Life Vest – Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Vests with handles are best.
• Don’t Let Dogs Drink Lake Water – Bring clean water.
• Rinse Off After – Prevent hot spots and skin irritation.
• Check Water Conditions – Avoid murky or oily water.

Bridgewater Channel-Specific Tips

• Heavy Boat Traffic – Stick to early mornings or low-traffic times.
• Strong Currents & Drop-Offs – Stay close to shore.
• Hot Dock Surfaces – Test surface temperature before letting dogs walk or jump in.

Best Safer Swimming Spots for Dogs

London Bridge Beach (Lions Dog Park Side) – Gentle shoreline, off-leash area, and calmer water. 📍 Google Map

Rotary Park (Beach Access) – Ideal for early-morning water play before the crowds arrive. 📍 Google Map

Bonus Tip from Wendy

“I always pack an extra towel, dog sunscreen for light-colored noses, and their life jacket, even if we don’t plan to swim. Because let’s be real: in Havasu, water happens!”