When temperatures rise, keep dogs off the trail

Tracy DeFore County of San Diego Communications Office

We encourage people to spend as much time with their pets as possible, and taking the dog on a hike may sound like a great idea. But as we enter the hottest months of the year, be aware that hitting the trail with your pet could have tragic consequences.

“Animal Services does not track the number of dog deaths on the trails of San Diego County, but we do know they happen,” said County Animal Services Director Daniel DeSousa. “Pet owners don’t realize that dogs are very sensitive to high heat and when temperatures rise, dogs should be left...