Hot Weather and Your Pets
With summer just around the corner, the Riverland can experience scorching temperatures. Here are some helpful tips to keeping your pets cool this summer.
- Put wet towels down for your pets
- Freeze containers of water to make big ice blocks for them to play with and chew on
- For dogs especially, you can freeze their dinner
- Dogs that like to play with tennis balls etc must not be over exercised, limit play to short periods; otherwise it could result in heat exhaustion
- Most animals just relax and sleep in the heat - they may be grumpy so give them lots of time out. Instruct children to also allow them to rest
- Dogs pant to regulate their body temperature they sweat through their paws and tongue.
- Cats are a lot more tolerant to heat, so if a cat starts to pant they will certainly be close to overheating so you must act fast ... wrap them in a cool, wet towel until they start to cool down, then seek veterinary advice.
Heat Exhaustion in Dogs:
For dogs, heat exhaustion can be dangerous – even fatal. If you think your dog may be suffering from heat exhaustion, cool it immediately by placing it on tiles or other cool flooring and cover with a damp towel and keep a close watch. Signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Restlessness
- Panting
- Increased respiratory rate
- Excess salivation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
If in any doubt get your dog or pet to a vet as soon as possible.