Pet Summer Safety Tips
As summer temperatures rise, keeping our furry friends cool, calm, and collected is essential. While long summer days are perfect for outdoor adventures, our pets can be vulnerable to hot weather with risks such as heatstroke and dehydration. Dr Jeanne-Marie Eksteen from Knysna Veterinary Clinic’s Sedgefield Branch shares her expert advice on pet summer safety tips to keep your four-legged friends happy and healthy this holiday!
When did you decide to become a vet?
One of the many critters I helped was a rescued crow brought to us by neighbours. He became part of the family — very loquacious, even featured on 50/50 way back in the 80s! When dogs attacked him and broke his beak, I decided to become a vet one day.
Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them!
We have four dogs and three cats, each with a rescue story. The most colourful story must be Tjokkie’s. Tjokkie is a Yorkshire Terrier that was picked up on the N2, unable to walk with slipping kneecaps and an old skewed-healed fracture. Six weeks in foster care without anyone claiming him led him to us. Vet-hubby Johan fixed his slipping kneecaps and the fractured leg, and now he sleeps under our duvet every night.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Hot Weather
What common mistakes do pet parents make during the warmer months, and how can they avoid them?
Walking dogs during midday, especially on a hot tarmac, can cause overheating, heatstroke and burned footpads. Instead, walk during dawn and dusk. Feel how hot the surface is and consider whether your feet will be happy walking on it.
Never leave your dog in a car, even with the window slightly open and parked in the shade!
What are some effective ways to keep pets cool during hot days?
Walk near water so they can take a plunge when they feel too hot. If your garden and house don’t have enough cooling spots, hose them down. Ice cubes in water bowls also work well.
What precautions should be taken for pets that spend much time outdoors?
Ensure that you have enough shade for them during the day, especially at midday. Keep their water bowl(s) in the shade and add ice cubes if their water still feels too hot. If possible, have a shallow, watery spot where they can cool their whole body down.
How might the heat affect a pet’s behaviour, and what signs should owners look for?
Overheating can cause excessive panting, weakness, collapsing and even death. Sluggishness or irritability can also be a sign that they are not well.
Any last thoughts on the topic?
Heat stroke can be fatal, especially in brachycephalic dogs with ‘flatter’ noses such as bulldogs who struggle to pant to cool down. Dogs that cannot breathe properly cannot regulate heat properly.
Keep Your Pet Covered All Year Round
While you do your best to keep your pets cool and safe, accidents and unexpected situations sometimes happen. That’s where pet insurance comes in! It can cover everything from heatstroke treatments to emergencies so that you can make the most of your summer adventures. Get a quote today and enjoy knowing your pet is always protected.
