Enchanted Rock advises hikers to leave dogs at home after string of heat-related rescues
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The summit of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is seen in the distance, a 425-foot change in elevation from where the trail begins. Enchanted Rock is a popular destination for Come Into The Outside hikes.
The summit of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is seen in the distance, a 425-foot change in elevation from where the trail begins. Enchanted Rock is a popular destination for Come Into The Outside hikes.
Photo: Dale Blasingame /Correspondent
The summit of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is seen in the distance, a 425-foot change in elevation from where the trail begins. Enchanted Rock is a popular destination for Come Into The Outside hikes.
The summit of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is seen in the distance, a 425-foot change in elevation from where the trail begins. Enchanted Rock is a popular destination for Come Into The Outside hikes.
Photo: Dale Blasingame /Correspondent
The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is advising hikers to leave their dogs at home after numerous pets in recent days experienced heat exhaustion, park rangers said.
With the 100-plus degree heat Texas has experienced recently, the state park trails are dangerous for pets, said park supervisor Doug Cochran.
“You are taking dogs — who are mostly indoor dogs, who sit in the air conditioning and lounge on the couch — out hiking in these temperatures, it is too much for them,” Cochran said.
Park rangers rescued five dogs unable to complete the 4.5-mile trail during a two-day span earlier this week. Rangers use utility terrain vehicles to pick up the dogs and then take them to the ranger’s station to cool off.
Friends – we have had 5 emergency heat rescues in the past TWO days. Most of those have been for dogs.
Summer afternoons in TX are simply NOT the time to bring the dog out hiking. Place your hand on the pavement or rock for 5 seconds. If it’s hot to you, it’s too hot for them.
— Enchanted Rock SNA (@GoEnchantedRock) July 22, 2020
Last year, Cochran said they had several dogs die from heat exhaustion and are just trying to be proactive to keep them safe this summer.
In addition to the dangerous temperatures for the four-legged hikers, the gravel on the trail can reach up to 150 degrees, making it extremely painful for dogs’ paws. Cochran said owners should always touch the pavement with their own hands first and if it is too hot for them, it is too hot for a dog.
“We are all dog lovers here and we don’t want to see the animals suffering,” Cochran said. “So we want to make sure we are doing what we can to help and make sure the dogs are safe.”
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If owners want to take their pets hiking, Cochran suggest buying special boots to protect them from the ground temperature. Owners should also bring lots of food and water for their dog and rest in the shade often.
Signs a dog is suffering from heat exhaustion include panting, drooling, vomiting and breathing distress.
For tips to safely hike with your dog, click here.
Taylor Pettaway is a breaking news and general assignment reporter for MySA.com | [email protected] | @TaylorPettaway
