SUMMER HEAT AND OUR PETS
During the warmer months we must pay particular attention to the needs of our pets. Dogs and cats have a very different thermostat to that of humans.
WE MUST ENSURE THAT OUR PETS HAVE:
- constant access to clean cool water;ice in their water buckets; a few water bowls in different places
- shade and shelter from the sun and winds even if you have provided a kennel, it must be in a shaded place
- don't take your animal out fro a walk until after the sun has gone down - the ground is still very hot and will burn thier paws
- don't take your animal out in the car unless it is absolutely necessary
- never leave your pet in a stationary car as it takes less than to minutes for them to overheat
- preferably have them inside in the air-conditioning
- provide a small wading pool for your dog to cool off in
ON EXTREMELY HOT DAYS LIKE AT PRESENT WE CAN
- put wet towels down for yourpets
- freeze containers of water to make big iceblocks for them to play with and chew on
- for dogs especially, freeze thier dinner to make 'PALcicles'
- dogs that like to play with tennis balls etc must not be over exercised, limit play to short periods
- most animals just relax and sleep in the heat - they may be grumpy so give them lots of time out. Instruct children to also allow them to rest
Dogs pant to regulate their body temperature they sweat through their paws and tongue.
Cats are a lot more tolerant to heat, so if a cat starts to pant they will certainly be close to overheating so we must act fast . . . wrap them in a cool, wet towel until they start to cool down, then seek veterinary advice.