Air & Water's Pet Pic Summer Contest!

What's that? You wanted another opportunity for a free fan and a chance to win a free NewAir AF-330 swamp cooler? Well, from now until 7/30/09 your wish is granted!

All you have to do to get your free Lakewood 1002 fan is:

- Write a blog entry titled "Pet Cooling" (excluding Myspace, Facebook or twitter blogs)

- Post up a picture of how your pet cools off (cute and creative pictures are a plus)

- Copy a simple code into your blog entry. If you need help, more detailed instructions are included on our contest page

- E-mail us at contest@air-n-water.com with a link to your blog and shipping information

- Wait for your free fan to come in the mail!

We will be posting your pictures on our contest page.

Also, at the end of the contest, every participant will be put into a drawing for a Free NewAir AF-330 Swamp Cooler!

To get you ready to think about pet cooling, here are a few tips to prevent heat stroke in dogs:

Don't Leave Your Pet in a Locked Car

It's common sense that leaving a pet in a locked car on a 100 degree day is very dangerous. Not many people know that seemingly mild days can also be a great danger to your pet. Remember, cars heat up fast, even when the windows are cracked.

Jogging

You may think that jogging during the summer with your dog is okay because they jog everyday and are in great shape, but your routine may need to be altered during the warmer months. Humans can alter the amount of clothing they wear and produce more sweat as temperatures rise. Dogs still have the same amount of hair and only sweat a small amount through their foot pads. It's better to jog during the early mornings or late evenings.

Housing

Does your dog stay outdoors for the most part? If so, doggie needs shade and fresh water access at all times. If you are living in a warm climate, it's good to hose your dog down often as well to provide extra cooling.

Signs of Heat Stroke

- A body temperature of 104-110 degrees – Excessive panting – Dark or bright red tongue and gums – Staggering – Stupor – Seizures – Bloody diarrhea – Vomiting – Coma – Death

Dogs with an Increased Risk of Heat Stroke

- Brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs and pugs)

- Large heavy-coated breeds

- Dogs with heart or respiratory problems

If You Suspect that Your Dog Has Heat Stroke

- Seek veterinary attention immediately

- Use cool water (not ice water) to cool pet

- Do not aid cooling below 103 degrees (it is possible for dogs to be too cool)

- Offer ice cubes for your dog to lick

- Even if your pet seems okay, still bring to the vet. Internal organs are affected by excess heat and a complex blood problem can be a secondary complication to heat stroke