Preparing pets for summer

Summer is rapidly approaching, and many Victorians are preparing for the holidays – but the RSPCA is reminding pet owners to keep the wellbeing of their pets in mind.

The wetter-than-usual summer forecasts may lead pet owners to believe temperatures will be less severe and lower their guard when it comes to caring for their animals.

It’s important for pet owners to understand how to properly care for pets in the heat and be familiar with the signs of an animal in distress. Preparing for summer will ensure the safety, comfort, and overall welfare of animals.

Planning and preparation are key to keeping animals happy and healthy during the summer and preventing a serious incident.

There are a range of things you should do, such as providing a cool shaded area with good ventilation and air flow, ensuring your pet has access to multiple sources of fresh, cool water, and bring pets indoors on hot and humid days if safe to do so.

Smaller pets such as birds, rabbits, and guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke, and need extra attention on warm days.

Despite predictions of a wetter-than-usual summer this year, high temperatures will still occur, which can lead to pet health emergencies including dehydration and heatstroke.

While it is generally safe for pets to accompany their owners in the car, RSPCA Victoria urges people never to leave their animals unattended in a vehicle.

Temperatures inside cars can rapidly reach unsafe levels – owners should be aware that it only takes six minutes for a dog or other animal to die in a hot car.

If you suspect your animal is suffering from heatstroke, RSPCA Victoria recommends the following steps:

1. Spray or apply tepid/cool water onto their fur or skin.
2. Don’t use ice or ice-cold water on your pet as it can potentially worsen the situation.
3. Fan the animal to maximise heat loss.
4. If possible, wet down the area around your pet to lower environmental temperatures.
5. Take your animal to the nearest vet immediately – even if it looks like they have recovered. The vet can assess for organ damage and provide life-saving treatment in serious situations.

Pet owners interested in learning more about preparing their pets for summer can do so at www.rspcavic.org/learn/seasonal-changes-and-your-pet.