Pet Safety Urged Amid Intense Weekend Heatwave
RSPCA Victoria has alerted pet owners to ensure their pets’ safety in the expected extreme weather conditions this weekend. The warning includes potential dangers such as heatwaves, hot footpaths, sudden thunderstorms, bushfire evacuations, and the presence of snakes and ticks.
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Bronwyn Oke, RSPCA Victoria’s chief veterinarian, highlighted the severe impact hot weather can have on pet health. “Hot and extremely hot weather like we’re expecting this weekend can be devastating for pet health,” she stated. She further explained that heat stroke, a potentially fatal condition, can occur rapidly in pets. Signs of heat stroke in pets include excessive panting, vomiting or diarrhoea, or unusually bright or pale gums.
Oke cautioned that heat stroke can still occur even after cooler weather arrives, as footpaths and concrete continue to emit heat, leading to high ground-level temperatures. She advised pet owners to contact their vet immediately if their pet shows these symptoms.
To prevent heatstroke, Oke suggested ensuring pets have access to shaded areas, fresh drinking water, and good ventilation at all times. She also warned against hot footpaths potentially burning pets’ paw pads, advising owners to check the footpath temperature with the back of their hand. “If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them,” she warned.
Oke also recommended bringing young and senior animals, as well as small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds, indoors during the day. She also urged pet owners to be alert for ticks and snakes when walking their pets. For those with livestock, she advised being prepared for potential water source or feed supply issues due to drought conditions.
She emphasized that it’s crucial for everyone caring for an animal during hot weather to understand their responsibilities and ensure their pet’s safety this summer.
