Heatwave Alert: Pets to feel the heat as temperatures soar to 38°C

With temperatures rising to a high of 38°C this week, the SPCA is sounding the alarm on pet owners to protect their animals from the dangers of the heat.

The SA Weather Services (SAWS) issued an alert for heatwave temperatures that will persist throughout the week, from Monday to Friday.

Here are the temperatures that are expected:

– Monday (Dec 2): 34°C
– Tuesday (Dec 3): 38°C
– Wednesday (Dec 4): 38°C, with a 30% chance of thundershowers
– Thursday (Dec 5): 34°C
– Friday (Dec 6): 35-36°C

The SAWS has cautioned that no significant precipitation is anticipated throughout the week, except for possible showers on Sunday.

With such high temperatures looming, the SPCA has emphasised that the heat can pose severe risks for pets.

One of the prominent dangers highlighted by the SPCA is leaving animals in parked vehicles.

The SPCA warned that even on seemingly mild days, cars can heat up rapidly, creating life-threatening conditions.

The welfare organisation urges the public to report any sightings of animals left in hot cars to the SPCA or local authorities after hours.

“Specific breeds require heightened attention during these heatwave conditions.”

The SPCA urged that white-faced dogs be kept indoors and pet-friendly sunscreen is recommended for pink noses, ear tips and areas with little fur.

The organisations advised that pet owners of short-nosed breeds must be very vigilant, as these dogs struggle to regulate their body temperature effectively and are at an increased risk of heatstroke.

Signs of animal heatstroke that require immediate veterinary treatment:
– Dark red gums
– Excessive or exaggerated panting
– Weakness
– Drooling
– Rapid heartbeat
– Unresponsiveness to surroundings
– Vomiting

“If a surface is too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your pets,” the SPCA said.

Pet owners are encouraged to consider these simple tips:

– Check the pavement before your walk. Place your hand or bare foot on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too hot for your skin, then it’s most likely too hot for your pet.
– Walk during cooler times of the day. Opt for walks in the early morning and late evening when the pavement is cooler.
– Keep midday walks short and shady. If you’re taking your pet out during the day, be sure to keep walks short. Choose a route with lots of shade and grass patches.
– Skip the asphalt entirely and choose to walk your dog strictly on grass or hiking trails.
– Consider outfitting your dog’s paws with booties to help keep the heat from burning their paws.
– If you have a longer adventure planned, be sure to bring water and take frequent breaks.

How to tell if a pet’s paw pads are burnt:

The pet will appear to be in pain and will show signs of discomfort. If your pet is holding up a foot, limping, vocalising, licking or chewing at the feet, it does not want to walk.

Pads are damaged if you notice a change in colour; typically, they’ll be darker and will change from pink to red.

Pets’ paw pads that are burnt will be visibly damaged with blisters, ruptured blisters, and redness, and pieces of pads are missing.

First aid for burnt paws:

– Bring your dog inside right away or to a safe, cool place. Carry your pet if necessary.
– Flush the foot with cold water or use a cold compress.
– Try not to let your dog lick the injured pad.
– Consult your veterinarian.

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