A guide to a safe summer for your pets

By Djembe Archibald

Dec 8, 2023

Hot days ahead: How to ensure your pet is safe and happy this summer. Photo by Rodney Braithwaite

With Australians bracing for what could be one of the most scorching summers on record, it’s a good time to remember your furry friends and think about their safety during the next few months.

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The Bureau of Meteorology said that December to February’s maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to very likely to be above average for Australia.

According to Four Paws Australia, a global animal welfare organisation, a mild 20° degree can turn the car into a heat trap very fast.

With a constant outside temperature of 20°C, the inside temperature of the car can rise to around 24°C within five minutes, to 27°C in 10 minutes, to 36°C in 30 minutes and to 46°C within an hour.

When temperatures are higher than 28°C a dog will have trouble cooling itself down naturally by panting and the chance of heat stroke rises.

Petstock vet Dr. Nick Emerton shared his advice about precautions owners should take to ensure their pets safety this summer.

Beat the heat

Shade and hydration: Ensure your pets have access to cool, shaded spots and a constant supply of clean, refreshing water. The sun can be relentless, but with the right shade and hydration, your pets can stay cool and content.
No hot cars: On hot days, never leave your pets alone in parked cars, even with windows cracked. Keep your pets at home or bring them with you when it’s safe.
Protect those paws: Hot pavements can turn a leisurely stroll into a painful experience. Before venturing out, use your hand to gauge if the ground is too hot for your pets’ paws. Opt for morning or evening walks when the pavement is cooler or stick to walking on the grass where it won’t be as hot.
Sun safety: Just like us, some pets can get sunburned. Ensure your pets’ sensitive areas are shielded from harmful UV rays by using pet-friendly sunscreen.

Heat related illnesses in pets

Here are some common conditions to watch for that require veterinary care.

Heat stress and heat stroke: Watch for signs such as excessive panting, rapid heart rate, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and elevated body temperature.
Dehydration: Extreme dehydration signs can include sunken eyes, dry, sticky gums, lethargy, or weakness.
Paw pad burns: Signs include limping, red or blistered paw pads.
Sunburn: Signs include red or pink skin, excessive itching, and peeling skin.

Protecting your pets during times of emergency

Australia’s unpredictable weather demands preparedness and being informed can light your path to safety.

Access to water: Ensure your pets have access to water that can last for several days, even if you are not home.
Temporary housing: Identify potential temporary housing options for your pets, such as boarding facilities, animal care centres, or pet-friendly evacuation centres or a backup caregiver.
Identification: Ensure your pets are properly identified with collars, tags, and microchips and make sure your contact details are up to date. Consider purchasing an engraved collar tag with your details, pet’s name and any medication they may need.
Emergency kit: Prepare a ‘Pet Emergency Kit’ that includes food, water, bowls, medication, vaccination certificates, blankets, and essential supplies.
Evacuation plan: Determine evacuation routes and procedures for moving your pets safely. Practice the plan to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Pets remaining at home: If you cannot take your pets with you during an emergency, provide secure shelter, ample water, and enough food for several days.

Remember, your pets rely on you for their safety and well-being, especially during challenging weather conditions and natural disasters.

By taking proactive measures and being prepared, you can ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable throughout the summer.