Summer in Victoria can bring soaring temperatures, blazing sunshine, and sticky nights — and while we humans have plenty of ways to keep cool, our furry companions rely on us to help them stay safe in the heat.
Did you know that dogs, cats, in fact many of our pets, dint have sweat glands and so cannot sweat to cool? It’s not just temperature that they struggle with but also humidity. There rely purely on respiration to cool, via airflow over the tongue and through the sinuses. N humid weather less evaporation and therefore less cooling is possible. Laying on a cool surface, in the shade, a nice breeze, that’s the place to be. Have an aircon and a good movie, even better!
But seriously …
At Direct Vet Services, we see firsthand how quickly hot and humid weather can take a toll on your pets. So as the mercury climbs, here’s what you need to know to keep your beloved dog or cat cool, comfortable, and protected.
Safe Exercise on the hot days (>25 degrees)
Even the most energetic dogs need to take it easy during extreme heat. Exercise during hot weather should be brief, gentle, and timed carefully.
Any pet with heart, respiratory or breathing issues (including flat faced breeds) should avoid any exercise in warm and / or humid weather.
Best times to walk: Early morning (before 9am) or evening (after 7pm)
Avoid: Lunchtime and mid-afternoon walks, especially on still, humid days.
Watch for these risks:
- Overheating
- Overexertion
- Paw pad burns (see below!)
Hot Pavement Burns – Try the 7-Second Rule
On hot days, pavements, footpaths and asphalt surfaces can reach scorching temperatures.
The 7-Second Test
Place the back of your hand on the ground. If you can’t hold it there comfortably for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws. If you wouldn’t be prepared to lay on it with your bare belly, then don’t walk them on it, sounds like a great theory to me.
If you need booties to get the puppers out and about, then its probably too hot to be out walking anyway, so sit back and Chillax.
Pool Safety for Pets
A backyard pool can be a welcome relief for pets, but it also brings significant risks.
Pool safety tips:
- Supervise at all times – Never assume your pet can swim.
- If it’s deeper than a paddle pool, ensure appropriate fencing. We have several families a year loose their pets through drowning. Ensure – like children, that they can not access the pool on their own EVER!
- Rinse off after swims – Chlorine and pool chemicals can irritate skin and eyes.
- Even experienced swimmers can get tired, so always be vigilant around water.
- Pool Covers – DON’T WORK! Animals think that they can walk on them, which provides a false sense of security. What happens is that they sink and the cover wraps around them, preventing escape. They in fact increase the risks for anything other than the most dainty of pets.
- A day at the beach can be a great treat. Ensure adequate fresh water, (salt water can cause toxicity when over consumed), provide plenty of rest and shade and avoid over exertion. That way everyone can have a great day out.
Cooling Treats & Hydration Hacks
Keeping your pet cool isn’t just about shade — it can also be fun and tasty!
Try these ideas:
- Freeze pet-safe treats in ice cube trays (e.g. chicken broth, watermelon chunks, yogurt)
- Add ice blocks to drinking water
- Set up a small wading pool or cooling mat
- Encourage rest indoors with a fan or air conditioning
- For rabbits and GPs, they love laying up against frozen water bottles.
Tip: Always offer plenty of fresh water and multiple bowls in different parts of the house or yard.
Recognising the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke in pets is a medical emergency. It can come on suddenly and escalate fast — especially in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, pets with thick coats, or those that are very young or senior. 5 minutes at 42 degrees body temp can cause the clotting factors in the blood to activate and be fatal.
Common signs of heatstroke include:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Red gums or tongue
- Reduced awareness, lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Collapse, seizures and death
- Loss of control of blood clotting, resulting in spontaneous bleeding
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately, offer small amounts of water, and contact a vet without delay. If possible run cool water (NOT COLD) over the body and grab a fan.
DO NOT USE COLD WATER OR ICE! This will reduce blood flow at the skin surface and prevent cooling, exacerbating the overheating and cause the pets temp to rise.
Final Thought
Our pets can’t tell us when they’re too hot — it’s up to us to notice the signs and adjust their routine accordingly. By following these tips, you’ll not only protect your pet’s health but also enjoy a happier, safer summer together.
Need advice or concerned about your pet in the heat? Call us on (03) 9369 1822 or book an appointment online.