HELP YOUR PET TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT

Another scorching Aussie summer has arrived. During the holidays, many of us will be spending extra time outdoors enjoying the sun, hanging at the beach and the park, and having fun with friends…furry ones included! But while all of us are aware of the importance of sun safety for ourselves, we also need to consider how the sun may be affecting our pets.

Heatstroke and dehydration as a result of sun exposure can put your pet’s life at risk. However, by following a few simple rules, you can guarantee you and your companions a safe summer in the sun.

Rule #1 Cool it down
Make sure your pets have access to cool, shady areas. This includes shifting aquariums, hutches and birdcages out of areas where they will be exposed to the hot sun. Cool, clean water should be available to your pets at all times. It may be worthwhile providing them with two drinking bowls in case one runs out or gets knocked over, especially if you are leaving them unsupervised for an extended period.

Rule #2 If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them
If the pavement is too hot for you too walk on with bare feet, it’s probably uncomfortable for your pet as well. Walk on the grass instead. Also, your pet’s unprotected skin is just as susceptible to burning as yours. If your pet has exposed areas of skin, apply a pet-friendly SPF 15+ sunscreen.

Rule #3 Take extra care if your pet is at risk
Dogs with long, dark or thick coats, which absorb heat, are particularly sensitive to heatstroke. Animals with shortened muzzles like Pugs, Persian cats and Bulldogs, overweight, elderly pets, newborns and those with existing health problems are also at increased risk.

Rule #4 Never leave your pet in the car
If you are planning a trip to the beach with your dog, make sure that animals are permitted. Do not be tempted to leave your dog unattended in the car because within 10 minutes, the interior of an unventilated vehicle will rise to suffocating and unbearable temperatures which can rapidly result in heatstroke.

Heatstroke develops if your pet’s body temperature gets too high. Prompt treatment will in most cases result in a full recovery, but delays may result in irreparable brain damage and death. Symptoms of heatstroke include legs, nose and ears that are hot to touch, heavy panting and drooling followed by vomiting, uncoordinated movement and possible loss of consciousness.

If you suspect your dog may have heatstroke, call a vet and take immediate action to reduce its temperature. This can be done by bringing it into air-conditioning, hosing the dog down with cool water or placing it in a cool (not cold) bath. You could also apply wrapped icepacks to his head, neck and chest on your way to the vet. Offer your dog small sips of cool water but do not allow it to gulp.

By following these simple rules and being aware of the action to take in the event of heatstroke, you and your cute friends can be assured a bright and safe summer of fun.

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