The change of weather is easily felt at this time of year, much more so by our furry friends.
As Queensland welcomes the first days of summer, vets urge pet owners to make sure that their animals are kept cool.
Temperatures are forecast to be in the mid to high 30s across South East Queensland from December 1, reaching a high of 40C in some areas. Mount Gravatt usually experiences average temperatures of 29C in December and 30C in January. These high temperatures can easily spell trouble for animals.
Manly Road Veterinary Hospital nurse Elizabeth Scanlan said that there have been more heat stress cases as of late. She urges pet owners to act before the temperatures get any higher.
“If it’s hot for you, imagine how your furry buddies feel.
“Please keep them as cool as possible and don’t exercise your pets in the middle of the day.
“If the ground is hot for you, it will be even hotter for your dog and blistered paws are very painful.
“Thinking ahead is the key … if you find your pet is already heat stressed, it can often be too late.”
It is important to be vigilant if your pet is experiencing heat stress as these can become emergencies quickly. Early treatment increases the odds of survival. Symptoms include desperate panting, bright red gums and tongue, drooling, excessive thirst, weakness, increased pulse, and hyperactivity.
