Summer heat & 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.
Please ensure your 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
- put wet towels down for your pets
- freeze containers of water to make big iceblocks for them to play with and chew on
- for dogs especially, freeze their 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.