Las Vegas pet safety is all about being aware of the risks from coyotes, snakes and the fall heat so your pet is safe whether you’re at home or away. Our valley is surrounded by desert and that desert doesn’t stop at the city limits. From Summerlin and the northern fringes right through to Southwest Las Vegas and Henderson, there are a number of communities that back onto open land where wildlife is a very real part of the landscape. The good news is that a few simple things can make a huge difference. Here’s what pet owners in Las Vegas and Henderson need to know as the weather cools and we all head back outside.
Las Vegas Pet Safety Starts with Coyote Awareness
Coyotes are the wild neighbors you’re most likely to come across. They’re all over the valley, not just on the fringes, and are most active at dawn and dusk. Small dogs and cats are the most at risk, but any pet left unattended in a yard is going to be a target.
A few habits make a big difference:
- Walk your dog on a short non-retractable lead, particularly in the early morning and the evening.
- Stay outside with small dogs (even in a fenced yard). Coyotes can jump or climb most standard fences.
- Never leave pet food, water bowls or the trash out overnight.
- Keep the cats indoors or keep a very close eye on them if they’re going to be outside.
- If you see a coyote, don’t run. Pick up a small dog, stand your ground, make a lot of noise and slowly back away.
Las Vegas Pet Safety Near Open Desert: Snakes
The Mojave Desert is home to a number of rattlesnake species (sidewinders and Mojave rattlesnakes amongst them). Snakes are most active in spring and early summer and will be out on warm fall days too. They slow right down once winter comes. The risk is greatest in the vicinity of washes, rock piles, trails and in the edge of the neighborhood where you have undeveloped land.
Most snakes would rather avoid you, so prevention is simple:
- Keep your dogs on a lead on the trails and stick to the open, well-traveled paths.
- Don’t let your pet stick its nose into the brush, the rocks or the gaps in the walls.
- Keep your yard free of debris and trim any overgrown areas.
- Take extra care at dusk when the visibility is poor.
If your pet is bitten, stay absolutely calm and keep your pet as still as possible. Carry small dogs. Go straight to the nearest emergency vet, and if you can, call them before you get there. Don’t cut the wound, don’t try to suck the venom out, don’t apply ice or use a tourniquet. Don’t wait for any symptoms to appear as a rattlesnake bite is always an emergency.
Las Vegas Pet Safety in Fall Heat and on Heated Pavement
Fall in Las Vegas still sees a fair bit of warm days. The pavement, the artificial turf and the sand can all burn paws long after the air seems comfortable. The five second test is a good one really. Just press the back of your hand to the ground and if it’s too hot for you it’s too hot for your pet.
Walk early in the morning or after sunset and always take water with you. Be on the lookout for heavy panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting or collapse. Heatstroke is an emergency. Short-nosed breeds, the elderly and overweight animals are all at greater risk. Never leave a pet in a parked car, not even for a few minutes.
As desert grasses go to dry, the foxtails and other grass seeds can get caught in the paws, ears, nose and eyes. Check your pet after every walk. Head shaking, sneezing or constant paw licking are all signs that you should call your vet.
A Quick Las Vegas Pet Safety Checklist
Keep this list handy for fall and winter:
- Leash your dog in the morning and in the evening. No exceptions.
- Supervise small pets in the yard at all times.
- Bring in the food, water bowls and the trash at night.
- Test the pavement before walks.
- Check paws, ears, and coat for foxtails after every walk.
- Save your nearest 24-hour emergency vet’s number in your phone.
Las Vegas Pet Safety When You’re Away
The holidays are upon us, and travel season is the period when most pet owners are most concerned. In-home pet sitting allows your pet to remain in their own environment whilst someone is looking after them and keeping an eye out for those desert hazards.
All Creatures Pet Sitting has been looking after pets all over Las Vegas and Henderson since 2016. Our sitters are all CPR and First Aid trained, and we have licensed veterinary technicians on call for any pet that may have specific medical needs. Our sitters are very much in tune with the little details that matter here (safe potty breaks, secure gates, avoid the hottest part of the day, etc.).
Holiday dates fill up very quickly, so it’s definitely worth booking well in advance. Just get in touch with us here to arrange your first visit! We’ll show you how we can look after your pets whilst you’re away.
