Today’s temperature is horrendously hot! Some of us are lucky enough to be working in air conditioning today, but the sun outside is packing one hell of a punch at a scorching 39 degrees.
Even if you’re in the cool, it’s important to remember some of those who aren’t – our furry friends. If you haven’t left the air con on inside (which many of us don’t have, or can’t afford to do) or your pets are outside the home, it is important to make sure you have made every effort to prevent them undergoing heatstroke. Pets are just as vulnerable to suffering on hot days so make sure you have taken reasonable steps to ensure that your best mate is ok.
To keep your cat and/or dog cool in summer:
1. Where possible, bring your pet inside on really hot days.
2. Leave them at home rather than taking them on trips outside or in the car.
3. If you have your pet outside in summer, make sure they have plenty of cool, shady areas to retreat to. Trees, shade sails and pergolas can provide some protection.
4. Make sure you have an excess of cool water available in multiple containers. By having more than one container you protect against the event of spillage. Make sure the water containers are in the shade and consider adding ice to the water to keep it cool.
5. Make sure to only walk your dog in the cool of the morning or evening, and consider taking them to the local lake for a paddle to cool down. Test the pavement outside to make sure it will not burn or blister your pet’s paws.
6. NEVER leave your pet in a hot car, not even for a couple of minutes. Parking your car in the shade is NOT a solution. Leave your pet at home.
7. Fill a clam shell with cool water and leave it in the shade for your pet to cool down in. Take precautions to empty the pool if you have young children with access to the outdoors.
8. Be aware that certain breeds are more susceptible to heat (heatstroke, sunburn etc) than others and take adequate precautions if necessary.
9. Frozen treats are a great way to cool your pet down during the day.
10. Monitor your pet’s health in summer for any signs of heat stroke, sunburn or dehydration and take them to a vet if unwell.
*RSPCA. For more, see RSCPA's advice here or here.
If you're struggling with the heat and need to take action to cool your home this summer, call your Look Local WA air conditioning services providers or electricians for ceiling fans.
