Parts of Australia are set to swelter through a scorching Wednesday, with temperatures in Sydney predicted to approach 40C and high fire danger forecast across most of Queensland.
While many will be taking to air-conditioned offices, shopping centres or beaches to escape the rising mercury, pets can struggle to keep their cool in a heatwave.
The RSPCA recommends several ways that pet owners can minimise the risk of their animals experiencing discomfort or even heatstroke.
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1. Provide pets with more than one bowl of water
Unlike humans, pets – especially breeds with thicker coats such as huskies and samoyeds – can struggle to regulate their body temperature in hot weather. “So always make sure they have access to cool, fresh water and plenty of shade that lasts throughout the entire day,” RSCPA NSW’s chief veterinarian, Dr Liz Arnott, says.
“You need to set up multiple water bowls in case one is spilt and keep them out of direct sunlight.”
Reporter Caitlin Cassidy’s dog Murphy keeps his water cool with ice cubes. Photograph: Caitlin Cassidy/The Guardian She says if the weather is predicted to be very hot, then inside may be the safest place for your pet to be – particularly in cooler, tiled areas that are not exposed to direct sunlight.
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2. Fans, wading pools and frozen treats all help
If pet owners are headed to work for the day, planning ahead can be a useful tool – which can mean freezing food items to leave in treat-dispensing toys or pointing a fan towards a favourite sleeping spot.
“Water, shade and good air flow are really critical so plan ahead to prevent them experiencing any heat stress,” Arnott says.
“You could provide fans, access to a wading pools outside and frozen treats – strategies that can keep pets cool.”
Audio producer Miles Herbert’s greyhound Lochie taking full advantage of technology. Photograph: Miles Herbert/The Guardian -
3. Keep frozen waterbottles in enclosures
Small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs are particularly sensitive to heat stress, says Arnott. “So as the forecast approaches the high 20s, bringing them into climate-controlled indoor areas is ideal.
“The use of frozen water bottles placed in their enclosures can provide them with the option to lean against these to get some cool relief.”
She says good ventilation is also critical – that means allowing airflow through your pet’s living space to minimise the risk of heat stress.
Guardian production editor Nikki Marshall’s cat, Pony, keeping cool indoors. Photograph: Nikki Marshall/The Guardian -
4. Walking dogs safely in the heat
Arnott advises it is best to avoid taking dogs for a walk in the hottest part of the day (typically around or after lunchtime), no matter how much he or she tries to convince you otherwise.
“Walking your dog in the morning or in the early evening will help you avoid heat stress and paw pad burns from the hot pavement or asphalt,” Arnott says. “This is especially important for those dogs with flat-faced shapes – particularly those that have noisy breathing or snoring when at rest or when walking”.
Arnott says the same goes for the park – many dogs don’t have efficient cooling mechanisms, meaning outdoor exercise can be risky.
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5. Watch out for signs of heat stress
Heavy panting, salivating, weakness or vomiting are all potential signs of heat stress in pets, Arnott says.
“If concerned, you can cool dogs down by wetting their coats and skin, offer them some water to drink and definitely contact your vet for some guidance.”
