With temperatures expected to spike this weekend, RSPCA ACT is reminding Canberran’s of the risk of heatstroke in pets this summer.
ACT’s CEO Michelle Robertson said hot cars, walking paths in direct sunlight, dogs in Ute trays and just being out in the sun without water can potentially cause harm to your beloved pets.
“Having your dog well hydrated at all times is the first thing you can do to avoid disaster, especially on those really hot days over summer,” she said.
“Flat faced (brachycephalic breed) animals, animals that are overweight, or have medical conditions or are in their senior years; are most at risk. Our pets cannot control their environment, it is essential that as responsible owners we ensure their safety and comfort in the heat.”
“We love when people take their dogs out and about but want to stress the importance of thinking ahead for the entire day. This includes packing enough water and bowls for your animal, knowing where shade is and making sure your dog is hydrated,” said Ms Robertson.
Other high-risk activities to be wary of this summer is walking your dog on hot concrete where burns to the pads of their feet can be very painful. Consider walking at either end of the day when the temperature is lower or find grassy areas to walk on with plenty of shade.
Brachycephalic, or flat-faced dog owners are advised to be particularly vigilant as these breeds are more susceptible to heatstroke than others.
Dogs do not sweat the way humans do so they try to keep cool by panting. Brachycephalic dogs including Pugs, British Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs struggle to breathe rapidly because of restricted airways and tight nostrils.
“With the many great outdoor water holes around the ACT, another danger is dogs drowning or swallowing too much water. It is a misconception that all dogs can swim, and if you are lucky enough to have a pool at home, teach your dog how to get out of the water.”
When it comes to cars and dogs in summer, RSPCA ACT advice is very simple: please do NOT leave your dogs in a hot care, it only takes 6 minutes to become critical and could result in death.
All reports of dogs left alone in clearly hot vehicles could be directed to Access Canberra, Police or RSPCA ACT Inspectors.
RSPCA ACT has some handy tips on how to beat the heat this summer:
• Provide your pets with a cool, shaded area with proper ventilation at all times.
• Give frozen treats for your pets and frozen water bottles for your bunnies and ferrets to cool their bodies.
• Mud puddles, splash pools, water misters or sprinklers are all good ideas for dogs and chickens.
• Avoid walks in the heat of the day - rather plan to go in the morning or evenings when it is cooler.
• Slip, slop slap - get some pet friendly sunscreen for dogs with light skin and noses.
• Consider putting out cool water in shady areas for wildlife, remember to put a rock or twigs in the water so the smaller creatures can drink safely without falling into the water.
• Small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, fetters, birds, rats and mice are highly susceptible to heat stress (which can be fatal). Make sure these animals are kept in cool and shady spots and provide cool treats for them to enjoy.
If you notice excessive panting, rapid breathing and increased heart rate, pale or red gums, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, weakness, lethargy, confusion, muscle tremors, seizures, little to no urination, or collapse, it could be heatstroke.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, start emergency first aid by cooling your dog down. Apply room-temperature or cool water to their fur/skin. To maximise heat loss, keep the environment cool (fan, air-conditioning) and of course, seek veterinary attention immediately.
To report a suspected case of animal neglect or animal cruelty in the ACT follow the link: or phone the RSPCA ACT on (02) 6287 8100.
