RSPCA urges extra pet care in summer

RSPCA Victoria and the CFA are urging Victorians to include their pets as part of their Fire Ready plans as the state gears up for a potentially volatile summer.

As part of RSPCA Victoria’s guide to a Pet-Safe Summer, planning for potential emergency evacuation and knowing what you need for your pets is vital.

RSPCA Victoria head of prevention Rebecca Cook said planning ahead was the best way to prepare.

“Planning for emergencies is such a crucial part of life in Victoria, particularly during the summer months.

“Many people across the state already have a Fire Ready plan in place, and we’re urging everyone to make sure their pets are included too.

“Our guide, ‘Don’t forget your PET’, looks at how to Prepare, Evacuate, and get Together again when the emergency is over.”

Key steps to prepare include:

• Updating your contact details on microchips and ID tags in case you and your pet are separated,
• Store photos or scans on your phone or email of important documents like registration, microchip numbers, vaccination certificates, medication directions, and your local vet
• Create an emergency kit with documents, medication, food, water, bowls, bedding, and toileting supplies, and
• Identify possible pet shelters, establish an emergency guardian, and share your evacuation plan with someone you trust who can evacuate your pets if you are not home.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said people should keep your bushfire relocation kit for pets within easy reach during high-risk bushfire days so you are ready to leave early.

“It can take longer than you think to move your pets, so make sure you can transport them efficiently and have towels and woollen blankets on hand to protect them.

“Families should consider ahead of time whether their leave-early destination can accommodate pets, otherwise to have an alternative in mind.”

Summer brings its own set of challenges for pets, from scorching footpaths, sudden thunderstorms, to creepy crawlies and impacts on food availability.

RSPCA Victoria chief veterinarian Dr Bronwyn Oke said there was a lot to look out for during the summer months.

“One of the deadliest things for our pets over summer is being left in hot cars.

“It can take just minutes for your pet to die in a hot car, even with the windows cracked.

“It’s not just hot cars that can be deadly; heat stroke is another real concern for pets and can happen quickly if they don’t have access to a well-ventilated, shady area with plenty of fresh water at all times.”

She said taking a dog for a walk on hot footpaths could potentially burn and injure their paw pads.

“A good test is checking the temperature of the footpath with the back of your hand, chances are if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.

“Some pets may also be more susceptible to skin cancers too, so they should stay out of the sun during peak hours to reduce their risk.”

For more information, head to rspcavic.org