Extreme Heat - Have your pet plan ready

6 January 2012

Before the next heat wave hits, it is important to ensure that you have a plan for your pets to keep them safe.

Owners should be vigilant of hot weather or even a sudden warm change in the weather after a string of cool days. Both these situations can trigger heat stroke.

Short-nosed breeds such as bulldogs, or overweight pets, are particularly susceptible to heat stroke.

Pets should always have ample shelter from the elements, free access to plentiful fresh water and be regularly observed. In extreme heat consider bringing your pets inside, cooling their drinking water with ice blocks, laying a wet towel on a tiled surface (for your pet to sit on) and leaving a fan running.

The following are great steps towards an effective extreme heat plan:

Have your pet checked at the vet - have this done before hot weather hits. If your pet is overweight or suffers from a medical condition, a checkup is strongly recommended
Ensure your pet has access to ample fresh, cool, clean water - consider investing in an 'endless water bowl' which attaches to your tap. This will continue to fill as your pet drinks from it. Alternatively, leaving several large bowls of water out is also a good strategy.
Provide ample shade - additional kennels, shade sails or other implements which provide shade are highly recommended. Ensure that as the sun moves, your pet has access to continual shade. This may be in multiple areas of your yard. Strongly consider bringing your pet inside, even if your pet is typically outdoor-only.
Observe your pet regularly - Have a friend or neighbour watch your pet if you are unavailable. If you are extremely concerned, drop your pet at your vet for day boarding.
Have emergency vet details on hand - if you need to act quickly, know where your nearest open vet is located. After hours and on weekends vets are often closed, so ensure you know where your nearest emergency centre is.

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