As the temperature rises, pet owners are warned to take extra precautions to ensure their furry friends stay safe and comfortable during the hot summer months.
According to spokesperson for Pretoria Dog Rescue, Celia van Zyl, their team is extremely concerned about the dogs in their care during very hot weather.
“We never walk them or let them exercise on very hot days to prevent heat exhaustion,” she said.
Van Zyl said they take several precautions to keep the dogs cool.
Filling their water bowls and hosing down the walls and floors of the kennels at least three times a day is one of their precautions.
They also supply big shells or buckets of water for the dogs to play and cool down in and add ice cubes to their drinking water during extreme heatwaves.
“Frozen carrots are also a huge favourite among the dogs, providing a cool and tasty treat.”
Director of Four Paws South Africa, Fiona Miles, said hot weather can be particularly challenging for pets, making them more susceptible to heatstroke and dehydration.
“It is crucial for pet owners to be aware of how heat affects their animals and to take proactive steps to ensure their well-being,” she said.
She encouraged pet owners to ensure their pets always have access to fresh, cool water.
Miles said dehydration is one of the biggest risks for pets in hot weather, and it can happen quickly.
“Avoid exercising your pets during peak heat, instead opt for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.”
According to Miles, hot pavements can burn your pet’s paws, and intense heat can lead to heatstroke.
“Provide your pets with a cool, shaded place to rest, and never leave them in a parked car, even for a few minutes, “stated Miles.
She said temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly, leading to fatal heatstroke.
Miles urges pet owners to watch for signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or lethargy.
“If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cool place immediately and seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible,” she stated.
“Regular grooming can also help keep pets cool, especially long-haired breeds.”
However, Four Paws recommends consulting with a vet or professional groomer before trimming your pet’s coat, as some coats provide protection against sunburn.
Mile stated that warmer weather also brings an increase in fleas, ticks and other parasites.
She said to ensure your pets are protected, use veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention products.
“When travelling with your pets, make sure to provide them with plenty of water and take regular breaks to allow them to rest and cool down.”
According to Infurmation spokesperson Karen Becker, the following tips can help pet owners who plan to travel:
– Gradually introduce your pet to car rides to make them enjoyable.
– Use a properly sized crate or a crash-tested safety harness to secure your pet in the car.
– Avoid the front seat and never drive with your pet on your lap to prevent distractions or accidents and injuries.
– Schedule frequent breaks for bathroom breaks and leg stretches.
– Pack essential items like poop bags, food bowls, water, medication, a grooming kit, and familiar toys or blankets.
– Ensure your pet wears a collar with an ID tag, is microchipped and pack a pet first aid kit and a recent photo.
In addition to these tips, Becker said pet owners should also be aware of the dangers of toxic plants, holiday hazards and the risk of their pets going missing.
He said some toxic plants to be wary of include lilies, sago palms and azaleas.
Becker added that during holidays, keep an eye out for hazards such as fireworks, toxic substances and electrical cords.
“And, in case your pet does go missing, make sure to have a recent photo of them, as well as a detailed description of their breed, size and colour,” he said.
“Contact local animal shelters, veterinary clinics and animal welfare organisations to report your pet missing, and post flyers in your neighbourhood to spread the word.”
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