Vets are urging pet owners to do the right thing as temperatures soar. One golden retriever recently suffered severe burns from hot pavers. Source: Greencross Vets.
Vets across the country are bracing for “a significant number” of pets being admitted to hospitals in the coming days as temperatures soar.
Dr Jessica Wilde, a chief vet at Lort Smith Animal Hospital in Melbourne, issued a stark warning that pet owners are “not getting the message” that dogs must be kept out of the heat at all costs.
She said it’s extremely disappointing to hear that dogs are still being walked in temperatures exceeding 30-40C.
“It is simply mind-blowing that people are still behaving this way and putting the pets, their family at risk of severe illness and death.
“After years of public campaigns on this important subject, it is extremely disheartening to hear this is still occurring,” Dr Wild said.
“We implore people to please think twice when talking your pet out this summer. Under no circumstance is it ever ok to put your pet at risk in the heat.”
“We anticipate to receive a significant number of pets with dehydration issues in the coming days that could have in many cases been entirely avoided.’”
Dogs at ‘severe risk’ of death over 32C
Greencross Vets, which has multiple clinics across the country, previously told Yahoo News that when temperatures reach 28 degrees or more, that’s when things get really dangerous.
One pet owner who took his dog Henry for a stroll on a “slightly warmer day”, was horrified to learn that the jaunt had left his beloved fur baby with serious wounds.
By the time he realised it was too hot, the damage had already been done. Pavers had already severely burned Henry’s paw pads.
12-19°C – Is generally safe to exercise your dog. Some brachycephalic breeds and any dog with health issues or traits that make them more susceptible to the heat must take care with temperatures above 16.
20-23°C — Low risk for heatstroke.
24-27°C — Moderate risk for heatstroke.
28-31°C — High risk for heatstroke. Life-threatening for brachycephalic breeds, puppies, large breed dogs and those with medical issues.
32°C or higher — Severe risk for heatstroke for all breeds.
How can I tell if my dog has heatstroke?
Anyone who notices the following signs is urged to take their pet to the nearest vet immediately.
Change in gum colour (pale or overly dark pink/red)
Dizziness, confusion, or agitation