Warning for Australian families as temperatures rise
As summer approaches, Australian families have been warned to be vigilant about an unseen danger.
Friendship Animal Hospital veterinarian Christine Klippen shares her tips on how to keep your furry friends safe this summer.
El Niño conditions persist in the atmosphere over Australia, and the Bureau of Meteorology long-term forecast there is an 80 per cent chance of above-average temperatures in most parts of the country over the coming months.
Victorian RSPCA Chief Inspector Michael Stagg recommended pet owners plan ahead and keep dogs cool over the summer. Photo: NCA NewsWire/Valerio Campan.
RSPCA Victoria chief inspector Michael Stagg urged dog owners not to “forget to plan” before heading out on summer activities with their pets.
“Planning and preparation are key to caring for pets during the summer months, especially when we know hot weather is coming,” Stagg said.
If dogs are left outside, adequate fresh water should be provided along with some sort of shelter to protect from direct sunlight and hot winds, he said.
“Think about the movement of the sun throughout the day and how that will affect your pet’s ability to access shade and regulate its body temperature,” he added.
Heatstroke can be life-threatening for dogs if they are not properly cared for and signs of heat stress are not recognized.
If you notice that your pup is constantly panting and breathing rapidly, his gums are pale or red, he is drooling, vomiting, or becoming lethargic, bring your dog inside, use cold water on his fur, and seek veterinary attention.
Pay attention and identify any signs that your pup is suffering from heatstroke. Photo: Sam Rotten.
Pet owners should check to make sure surfaces are not too hot before going out for a walk. Photo: Getty Images.
Young purebred male dogs are most at risk of heatstroke according to the RSPCA.
Before taking their pets for outdoor walks and physical exercise, pet owners are advised to watch where they walk, cut their dog’s hair, and for those with pink noses, don’t forget to “slip, slide, slap.”
On particularly hot days, owners are reminded to check the temperature of sidewalks and sidewalks when out running.
Because dogs’ paws can sustain serious injury if they are exposed to runway or hot concrete, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) suggests placing the back of your hand on the ground for five seconds to determine how hot your dog is.
For a great treat, it’s suggested leaving outdoor toys in the refrigerator overnight and cooking a variety of puppy bites, depending on what food your dog likes.
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