WITH the current hot and sunny summer weather conditions, the Amanzimtoti SPCA has provided some signs to watch out for, as well as what to do if you suspect your pet has heatstroke.

Amanzimtoti SPCA’s Michelle Hannan said some signs to watch out for, to see if your pet is suffering heatstroke, include: Panting, which can progress to distressed or noisy breathing as the heatstroke worsens, restlessness or agitation, pacing, seeking shade or water, drooling, red gums or tongue, increased heart rate, vomiting or diarrhoea, as well as the animal appearing lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated.

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Hannan said that, according to the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) website, when a dog gets too hot and is unable to reduce its body temperature by panting, it will develop heatstroke, which can kill them.

She said if you suspect your dog has heatstroke, you should move the dog to a shaded and cool area, immediately pour cool, not cold, water over the dog, allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water and continue to pour cool water over them until their breathing starts to settle.

“Wet towels placed over the dog can worsen the condition, trapping heat. In mild cases, towels can be placed under the dog, but never over. Throughout the treatment of heatstroke, try to avoid pouring water on or near your dog’s head, as there is a risk of them inhaling water which could lead to drowning, especially for flat-faced and unconscious dogs. Once the dog is cool, take them to the nearest vet as a matter of urgency,” read a statement by the NSPCA (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).

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If you suspect your cat has heatstroke or is overheated, you should move your cat to somewhere cool, offer water to drink, spray cool water onto your cat’s fur and use a fan or any available breeze to help it cool off. If possible, continue this treatment while transporting the cat to the vet, which you should do immediately.

The Amanzimtoti SPCA also urges pet owners to keep their dogs in mind when going for a walk.

Hannan said, “We can protect ourselves with shoes, whereas our animals cannot. Their paws, although seemingly tough and thick-skinned, are sensitive. Cats and dogs have sensitive paw pads that become vulnerable in the heat. Surfaces, such as pavement, asphalt, beach sand and artificial grass,s can become extremely hot, causing blisters or burns. Please do not walk your dogs when it is hot during the day. A good, cool alternative for walking is swimming.”

For more information, contact the Amanzimtoti SPCA on 031 904 2424.

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