Caught in a Dusty Rainstorm

July 22, 2009 -

One of the things you learn when you move from the East Coast to the Desert is that you absolutely have no idea what a real storm is.

Sure, growing up we had the occasional Northeast Hurricane or Winter Snowstorm.  But, the weatherman gives you days to prepare.  Not here in Arizona, you are lucky if you get a 30 second warning before a Dust Storm or a Monsoon rolls in.

All my life I've been an avid hiker and camper.  I always thought I'd know what to do in a storm, but I've recently learned I was completely wrong. 

Did you know that Dogs and Humans get Valley Fever from breathing in the dust?  I had no clue.  It does totally explain why cowboys insist on wearing a bandana over their face.  So, if you are caught out on a field when a dust storm blows in, sit calmly with your pooch, put your back to the wind, and cover both faces to the best of your ability.  I found this great article about Valley Fever symptoms in dogs: http://dogs.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Canine_Valley_Fever.  But, the best thing to do is find a vet.

Then, after the Dust Storm rolled in an out, I found Copley and I in a thunder & lightening storm.  Again, completely confused about what to do.  The first thing you should always do is seek shelter - a building or a car.  But, if you are out in the middle of nowhere, find a low spot away from trees, metal fences, pipes, tall or long objects.

Needless to say, after waiting it out for a while.  We made a mad dash for the car.  I had Copley in one arm, then a backpack, lunchbox, and soft-sided crate (trust me, you need a lot of stuff for agility training). 

Once I got the situation semi-under control, I decided to drive home.  Again, no one tells you about the flash flooding or the tumbleweeds that cross the street without looking. 

I'm glad that we made it home soaking wet and with a muddy paw printed car.  And, from now on, I'm keeping a $1.99 plastic poncho in my backpack.

I'd love to hear your stories about being caught in a storm with your pup and what happened... please share!