It cracked over 40 degrees in Penrith on Tuesday, and while many of us escaped the heat by taking shelter indoors and cranking the air-con, our furry friends don’t have the opposable thumbs to do the same.
It’s important we take their wellbeing into consideration as we continue experiencing scorching weather, and co-owner and manager at Penrith Veterinary Hospital Sally Churchill has some advice.
“If possible, keep your pet inside with the air-con or fans, and if outside, shade and water are very important,” Churchill explained.
“You can also provide ice blocks in water to keep the temperature cool, use cooling mats, have a shell pool, use water sprays like a sprinkler, or invest in an outdoor fan.”
The local vet said during the summer months, it’s best to avoid walking and exercising your dog in the middle of the day.
“Try to walk at dawn or dusk,” Churchill said.
“This is particularly important for certain breeds such as brachycephalic breeds which cannot regulate their own temperatures as well.
“It’s also important to avoid walking on hot surfaces.”
There are upsetting consequences if we don’t prioritise keeping our pets’ temperatures down.
“Heat stroke can affect multiple body organs, and in the worst incidents, it can cause death,” Churchill said.
And each year, they see first-hand what extreme heat does to pets.
“Penrith Vet Hospital unfortunately sees multiple heat-stressed animals every summer, and even some in spring,” Churchill explained.
“Most of them are treatable if brought in early enough, and if unsure, it is best to visit the vet and be checked.”
Ally Hall
Ally Hall joined the Weekender in 2024, and focuses on entertainment and community stories. She's a graduate of the University of South Australia and has previously worked as a Video Journalist with Southern Cross Austereo and as a News Reader with Australian Radio Network.