Tucson Family Pets and Native Wildlife
– A Combustible Mixture

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Gila Monsters (Heloderma suspectum)

Although they are rarely encountered inside the city limits of Tucson, Gila Monsters can be deadly to your dog or cat. They have a locking jaw that allows them to hold onto your dog (usually its muzzle) while it dispenses massive amounts of venom. The jaws may have to be pried loose or you can submerge the lizard in water until it releases its bite. (But don’t submerge your dog’s nose, the Gila monster can hold on longer than your dog can hold its breath.) Dogs seem to find these lizards irresistible, so, once again, keep your dog on a short leash. By the way, Gila Monsters are protected by state law, so simply give them the right of way.

Scorpions (Arachnida)

These members of the spider family come out to hunt at night, emerging from beneath rocks, woodpiles and other sheltered areas. These critters can see the difference in size between themselves and your pets and will try to flee, but your dog or cat can be persistent (think about the time your dog wants to play ball, you can’t dissuade them for much of anything) and when cornered the scorpion will fight back. The sting of the Bark Scorpion is the most serious, so if your pet is stung, call your veterinarian. Once again, a good exterminator and keeping your pet in at night is the safest route to avoid these critters.

Africanized “Killer” Bees

Since arriving in Arizona in the early 1990s, there have been several instances of dogs, horses, and even people being killed by these insects. They are no more venomous than the native bee, but they are easily angered and will attack in mass. When walking your pet, wear light-colored clothing and keep alert. If your dog is in good shape and so are you and you’re caught out, your best bet is to take off running. Most bees will give up the chase after about one-half mile. If your home is infested, call a professional Tucson exterminator or the fire department immediately.

Safety Tips

Although some of these tips were mentioned above, I think it’s worthwhile to once again state how we can protect our beloved pets.

• Leave the wildlife alone, never let your dog run free in the desert.
• Be aware when snakes and coyotes and critters are active.
• Keep your pets indoors at night.
• Don’t let your cats run free – ever.

Make your home and yard uninviting to pests by destroying webs, clearing up piles of wood and bushes, providing adequate fencing, having regular pest control inspections, and securing your trash can.

The Sonora Desert that is home to Tucson is a beautiful place to live and with a little adjustment, your pets can enjoy it almost as much as you do.

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