TOP PET store Petmania is warning pet parents that scorching temperatures can be harmful to animals.
Owners are being cautioned that parts of Ireland are set to sizzle to at least 25 degrees over the weekend and that is ringing alarm bells.
The store is sharing these tips for pet owners to help care for their furry friends.
Like their human companions, most pets enjoy warm weather, but Petmania says it is important to be vigilant and to be mindful of signs of distress.
Emily Miller of Petmania told Kilkenny Press:
“Dogs and cats can become dehydrated and overheat very quickly in hot temperatures.
“Heatstroke can be fatal if untreated however with the right precautions, everyone including our four-legged friends can enjoy the summer sun.
“Knowing the signs of heatstroke could potentially save a pet’s life. Heatstroke can occur when an animal’s temperature rises to a dangerous level.
“If their temperature rises above 40°C they must be rushed to a local vet. With a few precautions, our beloved pets can join the fun in the sun.”
Petmania Ireland advises that pet owners check the following signs of heatstroke and if present a vet should be contacted immediately:
- A temperature of 40 to 43 degrees Celsius
- If the pet is staggering, having a seizure, or in a stupor
- Excessive panting
- Dark or bright red tongue and/or gums
- Sticky or dry tongue and/or gums
- Bloody diarrhoea or vomiting
The Irish-owned pet retailer recommends these tips to keep pets safe and well in the sunshine:
- Ensure pets have access to the shade when they are outside, such as under a table or a tree.
- Make sure cool water is available for drinking, whether the pet is indoors or outdoors. Water should be fresh and refilled often.
- Dog owners should avoid walks in the afternoon when temperatures are at the highest and instead opt for a morning or evening walk. Senior dogs, overweight animals, dogs with thick fur, or dogs with a pushed-in nose (such as boxers, pugs and Pekingese) are even more at risk.
- Check the ground before taking dogs out for walks or letting cats outside on hot days, as asphalt gets very hot and can burn pets’ paws. Walk on grass wherever possible.
- Don’t ever leave a pet in a hot car unattended. Not even with the windows down, in the shade or for short periods.
- Our pets can’t sweat like humans, so they pant to lower their body temperature. If they’re inside a car, recycling very hot air and panting doesn’t help, and heatstroke can occur very quickly.
- Protect their skin with sunscreen on sensitive areas like ears and paw balm on their feet.
- Invest in a paddling pool, pet cooling mat or other outdoor summer accessories.
Petmania pet store and grooming studios are on hand with helpful tips and tricks on preparing your pet for summer.
Pet parents can visit a free online resource, the Pet Care Advice Centre, via www.petmania.ie for more tips to stay cool summer.
