Posts

Extinguishing Heat Exhaustion in Cats

/in , , , , /by

Heat

Extinguishing Heat Exhaustion in Cats

Are you a pet parent living in an area with hot summers? If you don’t have air conditioning, you may be worried about your cat getting heat exhaustion. There may be a flurry of questions going through your mind: What will happen while you’re gone during the day? Will your kitty sweat — or suffer?

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to keep your home cool enough for your feline friend.

Hot Town, Summer for the Kitty

When temperatures start to rise, your cat might be more comfortable than you think: according to The Washington Post, her average body temperature stays around a toasty 38 degrees Celsius. Since her ancestors evolved in the desert, she can also get most of her moisture from food.

However, this doesn’t mean she’ll be safe and comfortable locked in a warm house. Cats can’t sweat as humans do. Instead, your feline friend needs to release heat continually by laying on cool surfaces, panting, and drinking cold water.

Make sure your kitty is comfortable by doing a few precautionary things around the house:

  • Water, water, everywhere: Since water will evaporate faster in the summer — and your cat might be disinclined to trek around the house — it’s a good idea to keep several bowls of cold water throughout your home. If you live in a multi-level house, keep a bowl on every floor. Putting them under a chair or away from sunlight and cat food might make them more appealing. You can even place some empty pet bowls in the freezer overnight and fill them in the morning to help the water stay colder longer.
  • Homemade ice pack: Leave a homemade ice pack where your cat likes to lounge. If your cat gets too warm, a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel is a good daytime nap buddy. (Remember to put it back in the freezer when you return home.) Never leave your cat alone with a commercial ice pack, since the chemicals in it could be dangerous to her if it pops or leaks.
  • Close the curtains: By darkening a few rooms, you can limit the amount of sun and heat that enters your home during the day. Not only will your feline friend be thankful for the shade, but you also won’t be hit with heat the minute you walk in the door.
  • Keep a fan running: A small fan or two in the right spots can help circulate air and keep your cat cooler throughout the day. You can also consider using a timer for the fan if you don’t want it running all day.
  • Make her a cool cave: Cats love to cool down under furniture, so consider putting your bed on risers to give her lots of room to relax and sleep comfortably. Alternatively, putting a tablecloth on your kitchen table might give her a breezy hideaway on a cool tile or wood floor.

Safety Tips

Cats need water and fresh air to keep cool — but more isn’t always better. Make sure your cat doesn’t have access to large tubs of water or swimming pools. Never leave your tub full of water or large buckets of water out for your cat since this can create a drowning hazard. If you have a pool, make sure your cat can’t access it when you’re not at home.

You should also be careful not to leave windows wide open. Since cats can push out screens and escape — or a heavy window could close on them suddenly — you should not leave low-to-the-ground or heavy windows open while you’re not at home. Do leave at least one window that your pet can’t reach cracked for fresh air. Blocking a small open window with a fan can also help circulate air while keeping kitty from getting any ideas.

Heat Exhaustion in Cats: Warning Signs

Even when you do everything you possibly can to help keep your kitty cool, heat exhaustion in cats is still a possibility. Heat stroke in cats is actually more common in certain breeds than others. Since Persians and other flat-faced cats can’t pant as well as other breeds, they have a harder time naturally cooling down their bodies and are more susceptible to heat exhaustion, according to Preventive Vet.

If you notice excessive panting, a rapid heart rate, sunken eyes, or little to no urine in your cat’s litter box, she may be dehydrated and suffering from heat exhaustion. Check her hydration levels by gently pinching the skin between her neck and shoulders: Does it stay “tented”? Is it slow to smooth down? If so, she is likely dehydrated, and it’s important to get her to the veterinarian right away. They may then need to administer intravenous fluids before the condition gets too severe.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends that cats with very flat faces and those who are elderly, obese, or have lung or heart issues be watched closely for heat exhaustion. If your cat has one of these conditions — and you have tried ways to keep her cool without air conditioning — you may want to talk to your vet. The most important thing to remember is to be proactive and observant when the thermometer climbs so you can spot the signs of heat exhaustion quickly and resolve them.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Beat the Heat

/in , , , , /by

Heat

Beat the Heat

When you are feeling the heat of the warmer weather, so are your pets!
As we felt during this last week, the warmer weather is here, and protecting your pets from the heat is crucial for their well-being. While we humans may relish these sunny days, it’s crucial to remember that our furry companions may not share the same enthusiasm for the hotter days.

In this article, we explore the essential steps and precautions necessary for safeguarding our four-legged friends against the oppressive heat. From understanding the unique vulnerabilities of pets to the importance of hydration and shade, we’ll equip you with some knowledge and tools you need to ensure your pets stay cool, comfortable, and safe during the hottest months of the year.

Heat

Editorial note: This article is a reprint from 11 October 2023.

HOT WEATHER TIPS
Provide Ample Shade: Ensure your pets have access to shade throughout the day. If they spend time outdoors, set up a shelter or use natural shade from trees or structures. Shade helps protect them from direct sunlight and keeps them cooler.

Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous exercise and outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for walks and playtime in the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower. Do not walk on hot pavements!

Stay Hydrated: Always have fresh, cool, clean water available for your pets. Dehydration can be a significant risk in hot weather, so encourage them to drink frequently. Although some owners think that ice water may help, it can actually slow your pet’s water consumption which is counterproductive in the heat.  Chewing on ice cubes is also not recommended, especially for dogs with dental issues. Remember to keep their water bowls out of the sun.

Cats may be reluctant drinkers because, in nature, they get a lot of the necessary moisture from their food.  Here are some tips to encourage drinking for cats.

Heat

Provide Cooling Solutions: Offer your pets cooling options like a shallow kiddie pool or a damp towel for them to lie on. Some pets may enjoy a cooling vest or bandana designed for hot weather. Never let them swim, unsupervised and if they did dip in a chlorine pool, rinse them off with clean water after.

Consider Indoor Time: If the heat is extreme, it’s best to keep your pets indoors. Ensure your home is well-ventilated and has fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature. Regulate the temperature inside your home. Use air-cons, and fans, or give access to cooler areas like a basement or darker room with tile floors.

Travel Safely: If you’re traveling with your pets, plan ahead to ensure they stay cool during the journey. Please bring water, a travel crate with proper ventilation, and always avoid leaving them in a parked vehicle unsupervised.

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and heat advisories. Extreme heat warnings may prompt you to take additional precautions or keep your pets indoors.

PRECAUTIONS
Avoid Hot Pavement: Asphalt and concrete can get extremely hot in the summer, which can burn your pet’s paws. Walk your dog on cooler surfaces like grass. Test the pavement/ground/road with the back of your hand before you go for a walk. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Use the 7-second rule. If you can’t hold your hand on the road or pavement for 7 seconds, then it can potentially burn their paws and cause injury.

Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars: Even on mildly warm days, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly and become dangerously hot. Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Report animals in cars to your local SPCA!

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke: Be vigilant for signs of heatstroke, which can include excessive panting, drooling, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, and lethargy. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler place, offer water, start an active cooling process, and seek immediate veterinary attention. During the active cooling process to treat heatstroke, don’t use ice to cool a pet!  Wet your dog down with room-temperature water and focus on your pet’s underside and back (avoiding the head). A wet towel is an effective cooling solution whilst travelling with your dog to the vet.

Grooming: Regular grooming can help keep your pets cool. Brushing your pet’s coat can remove excess fur and prevent overheating. However, don’t shave long-haired breeds as their fur helps regulate temperature. As a general rule dogs shouldn’t be shaved, either; however, there are exceptions, such as dogs with chronic hot spots. Some dogs actually really like a very short coat; in this case, consider a “puppy/summer cut”.

Protect Sensitive Pets: Take extra precautions with old, overweight, or snub-nosed dogs in hot weather. Boston terriers, Pekingese, Pugs, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, and Bulldogs are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Dogs with heart or lung diseases should be closely monitored. For those breeds with a thin coat or lighter skin, prone to sunburn, apply animal-safe sunscreen.

Heat

Even in the summer, we can experience some cold days! Here are our cold weather tips. If you see an animal that appears owner-less at the time, in danger, injured, in distress, or one that is not protected from the elements, please contact your local SPCA immediately! Visit the NSPCA website to find your nearest SPCA.

 The risk of flash flooding is also a reality.

Heat

It doesn’t matter what kind of weather we have; your animals should always be protected from the elements as you are responsible for them and it is required by law. By following these guidelines, you can help protect your pets from the potentially dangerous effects of hot weather and ensure they enjoy a safe and happy summer.

As summer’s scorching embrace settles in, safeguarding your pets from the heat becomes an act of love and responsibility. Our loyal companions rely on us to ensure their well-being, and protecting them from high temperatures is a crucial part of that commitment.

Join us again next week as we learn more about the animals in our world and how to improve their lives.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin

Dehydration in Cats & Dogs

/in , , , , , , , /by

Dehydration

Dehydration in Cats & Dogs

Dehydration is a serious concern for both humans and our pets, particularly during the summer months. If your pet doesn’t drink enough water on a warm day, dehydration may set in quickly, so it’s important to know the cause, signs, how to treat it, and when to see your veterinarian.

What is dehydration, and what are the causes?
Dehydration is a condition that can affect any species of pet, and occurs when more fluid is lost from the body than is taken in. This may be caused by symptoms of disease such as vomiting and diarrhoea, chronic kidney disease, untreated diabetes mellitus or simply not having access to enough clean water.

Dehydration may be further associated with conditions such as heat stroke, as it also plays a role in maintaining normal body temperature in the heat.

It is therefore important to ensure that your pet always has access to fresh, cool water at all times.

Dehydration

Are certain animals prone to dehydration?
Although any cat or dog can become dehydrated, young (especially infants) and geriatric animals are more at risk. Additionally, any cat or dog that is older or nursing a litter is more prone to dehydration.

What are the signs & symptoms?
Depending on how dehydrated your pet is, and the cause of dehydration, symptoms of dehydration may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy and/or weakness
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
  • Dark, concentrated urine
  • Excessive panting
  • Sunken eyes
  • Loss of skin elasticity and prolonged skin tenting
  • Very pale or bright red gums

If you’re worried that your pet isn’t drinking enough but isn’t showing any of the signs of dehydration mentioned above, they may be fine.

Wet pet food has a high water content, so it is possible they may be receiving enough daily water from their diet. However, if your pet suddenly stops drinking as much as usual, it’s best to speak to your veterinarian for advice.

How to prevent dehydration in cats & dogs
There are a number of ways you can help your pet to maintain an adequate water intake by ensuring your pet has access to fresh water at all times.

Bacterial prevention: fresh, clean drinking water
Both the food and water bowls need to be thoroughly cleaned once a day to prevent slime and bacteria from accumulating.

Placing the bowls out of direct sunlight will also help decrease the speed at which bacteria can grow and keep water cooler for longer.

Dehydration

Supply the right quantity of water for your pets
If you have more than one pet, use multiple water bowls so that each pet has their own water supply.

Take water on the go
If you plan to take your pet for a long walk, running or hiking, you should always carry a supply of water with you.

Schedule activities for when it is cooler
Try to avoid going out at the hottest times of the day around noon, and limit your pet’s activity levels at these times and during hotter days as far as possible. Early morning and late afternoon/early evening are better times to go out with your pet to avoid heat-related dehydration.

Cats: Location, location, location
Many cats do not like to drink water that is located anywhere near their food source. To ensure your cat is drinking enough, try placing their water somewhere else at home, such as in the bathroom or in a corner of the kitchen.

They can also be fussy about drinking from a bowl – if this seems to be the case, try using a large mug to sip their water from.

When to see a vet for dehydration in cats & dogs
If your pets are presenting any of the more severe symptoms mentioned above, seem to be in pain, are not eating, or are experiencing vomiting and/or diarrhoea, you should seek veterinary attention immediately.

Source: Cape of Good Hope SPCA 

FOUR PAWS’ Summer Pet Care Tips

/in , , , , /by

Pet

FOUR PAWS’ Summer Pet Care Tips

Take a look at our essential tips to keep your pet happy, healthy, and protected over the summer

The South African summer heat is here and the warmer it gets the more important it becomes to prioritise your pet’s safety. Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS offers useful tips to help pet owners avoid problems with their animals so they can enjoy the hot, sunny days together.

“Your pets have specific needs just like you, and there are a few basic things that one should always remember when dealing with pets.” says Fiona Miles, FOUR PAWS director South Africa.

Pet

Take extra care of your dog in the heat as serious cardiovascular complications could lead to heatstroke. Dogs are at risk of sunburn at areas where they have no hair such as their nose and ears. Always ensure you have fresh drinking water available for your dog especially on outings and take regular breaks particularly if your dog is older. Strenuous activities with your dog such as jogging and cycling should be done during the cool of the morning or evening. Avoid hot stones and asphalt by doing the “seven-second test’’. Hold the back of your hand for seven seconds on the pavement. If you cannot hold out for the full seven seconds because the surface is too hot, then neither can your dog’s paws. Never leave your dog unattended in the car on a hot summer day. Dogs die in hot cars.

Cats will usually find a shady spot for themselves in the hot weather, so they may be in less danger than dogs but keep an eye on them. Make sure your cat always has access to fresh drinking water. Get rid of any uneaten food quickly as it will go off in the heat. Smaller mammals require constant access to fresh water in the heat. Ensure that animals in outdoor enclosures have shady places and objects they can slip under to avoid the summer sun. Pet birds must always be kept out of direct sunlight. Position aviaries away from extreme temperatures and draughts. Change their water regularly in their bathing tubs and drinking bottles daily to avoid build-up of bacteria because of the heat.

Pet

Summertime is a fun time, but hot weather makes for some unique summer pet care challenges. Although wild animals are well adapted to the elements, companion animals can be just as vulnerable to extreme temperatures as their owners are. When the temperatures become extreme, pet safety should be pet owners’ top priority.

Source: FOUR PAWS

Beat the heat – Hot weather tips for pets

/in , , , , /by
Beat the heat

Image: Pixabay

Beat the heat – Hot weather tips for pets

When you are feeling the heat of the warm weather, so are your pets!

As we felt during this last week, the warmer weather is here, and protecting your pets from the heat is crucial for their well-being. While we humans may relish these sunny days, it’s crucial to remember that our furry companions may not share the same enthusiasm for the hotter days.

In this article, we explore the essential steps and precautions necessary for safeguarding our four-legged friends against the oppressive heat. From understanding the unique vulnerabilities of pets to the importance of hydration and shade, we’ll equip you with some knowledge and tools you need to ensure your pets stay cool, comfortable, and safe during the hottest months of the year.

Beat the heat

Image by The Paw Company

HOT WEATHER TIPS

Provide Ample Shade: Ensure your pets have access to shade throughout the day. If they spend time outdoors, set up a shelter or use natural shade from trees or structures. Shade helps protect them from direct sunlight and keeps them cooler.

Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous exercise and outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for walks and playtime in the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower.

Stay Hydrated: Always have fresh, cool, clean water available for your pets. Dehydration can be a significant risk in hot weather, so encourage them to drink frequently. Although some owners think that ice water may help, it can actually slow your pet’s water consumption which is counterproductive in the heat.  Chewing on ice cubes is also not recommended, especially for dogs with dental issues. Remember to keep their water bowls out of the sun.

Cats may be reluctant drinkers because in nature, they get a lot of the necessary moisture from their food.

Beat the heat

Image by Bark & Whiskers

Provide Cooling Solutions: Offer your pets cooling options like a shallow kiddie pool or a damp towel for them to lie on. Some pets may enjoy a cooling vest or bandana designed for hot weather. Never let them swim, unsupervised and if they did dip in a chlorine pool, rinse them off with clean water after.

Consider Indoor Time: If the heat is extreme, it’s best to keep your pets indoors. Ensure your home is well-ventilated and has fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature. Regulate the temperature inside your home. Use air-cons, and fans, or give access to cooler areas like a basement or darker room with tile floors.

Travel Safely: If you’re traveling with your pets, plan ahead to ensure they stay cool during the journey. Bring water, a travel crate with proper ventilation, and always avoid leaving them in a parked vehicle unsupervised.

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and heat advisories. Extreme heat warnings may prompt you to take additional precautions or keep your pets indoors.

PRECAUTIONS

Avoid Hot Pavement: Asphalt and concrete can get extremely hot in the summer, which can burn your pet’s paws. Walk your dog on cooler surfaces like grass. Test the pavement/ground/road with the back of your hand before you go for a walk. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Use the 7 second rule. If you can’t hold your hand on the road or pavement for 7 seconds, then it can potentially burn their paws and cause injury.

Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars: Even on mildly warm days, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly and become dangerously hot. Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Report animals in cars to your local SPCA!

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke: Be vigilant for signs of heatstroke, which can include excessive panting, drooling, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, and lethargy. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler place, offer water, start an active cooling process, and seek immediate veterinary attention. During the active cooling process to treat heatstroke, don’t use ice to cool a pet!  Wet your dog down with room-temperature water and focus on your pet’s underside and back (avoiding the head). A wet towel is an effective cooling solution whilst travelling with your dog to the vet.

Grooming: Regular grooming can help keep your pets cool. Brushing your pet’s coat can remove excess fur and prevent overheating. However, don’t shave long-haired breeds as their fur helps regulate temperature. As a general rule dogs shouldn’t be shaved, either; however, there are exceptions, such as dogs with chronic hot spots. Some dogs actually really like a very short coat; in this case, consider a “puppy/summer cut”.

Protect Sensitive Pets: Take extra precautions with old, overweight, or snub-nosed dogs in hot weather. Boston terriers, Pekingese, Pugs, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, and Bulldogs are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Dogs with heart or lung diseases should be closely monitored. For those breeds with a thin coat or lighter skin, prone to sunburn, apply animal-safe sunscreen.

Beat the heat

Image by Bark & Whiskers

Even in the summer, we can experience some cold days! If you see an animal that appears owner-less at the time, in danger, injured, in distress, or one that is not protected from the elements, please contact your local SPCA immediately! Visit the NSPCA website to find your nearest SPCA.

 The risk of flash flooding is also a reality.

Beat the heat

Image shared on The Paw Company Facebook page

It doesn’t matter what kind of weather we have; your animals should always be protected from the elements as you are responsible for them and it is required by law. By following these guidelines, you can help protect your pets from the potentially dangerous effects of hot weather and ensure they enjoy a safe and happy summer.

As summer’s scorching embrace settles in, safeguarding your pets from the heat becomes an act of love and responsibility. Our loyal companions rely on us to ensure their well-being, and protecting them from high temperatures is a crucial part of that commitment.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin

Do you care enough about your animals to learn about keeping them safe? (Part 3)

/in , , , , , , , , , , , /by

Image: Pixabay

Education is Key to Helping Animals and their Owners and for changing Animal Welfare in the World!
Sadly, most people don’t spend nearly enough time educating themselves on how to improve their pets’ lives or how to help other animals or animal welfare organizations.

How safe are your Animals:

  • From getting out of the yard?
  • In and around your house?
  • When they are home alone?
  • When you are travelling or on holiday?
  • In an emergency?
  • When they are around your kids?

From getting out of your Yard:
Why do you think we advocate for keeping all animals, including cats, safe in your yard? We live in a cruel, unforgiving and sick world. If you think the streets are not safe for your kids, why would you let your pets roam the streets? There are many creative ways to KEEP YOUR CAT SAFE in your yard.

Image by The Paw Company on keeping cats safe in your yard

here is an increase in the theft of cats and dogs everywhere! Your pets are your responsibility and protecting them from being stolen should be a priority. You can do this more effectively if you understand the why & how of PET THEFT!

Please let your pets sleep inside your home.  They are not responsible for protecting you, but you should protect them.  When they sleep inside, both your family and your pets are safer. Dr. Rudolph Zinn from UNISA’s School of Criminal Justice conducted research into understanding and preventing house robbery in South Africa. Based on in-depth interviews with convicted robbers, dogs that sleep inside are one of the biggest deterrents for criminals.

There is an increase in the theft of cats and dogs everywhere! Your pets are your responsibility and protecting them from being stolen should be a priority. You can do this more effectively if you understand the why & how of PET THEFT!

Please let your pets sleep inside your home.  They are not responsible for protecting you, but you should protect them.  When they sleep inside, both your family and your pets are safer. Dr. Rudolph Zinn from UNISA’s School of Criminal Justice conducted research into understanding and preventing house robbery in South Africa. Based on in-depth interviews with convicted robbers, dogs that sleep inside are one of the biggest deterrents for criminals.

In & Around your House:
Poisoning of animals can be just malicious or it can be closely related to planned break-ins. It is important to know, in advance, what to do if this happens or how to minimize the risk. POISONING is probably one of the worse deaths a pet can experience. Get your poison rescue packs from the local animal welfare organizations and the SPCA. It can buy minutes which might mean the difference between life and death.

A requirement for your pets, required by law, includes that they must be protected from the elements.

Mismanaged trash has a devastating effect on the environment, but also creates a high risk of injury or death to your animals and others. Even though you might throw your trash in the garbage bin, where they land eventually can still impact the environment and hurt animals. Here are some things you can do, when DISPOSING OF LITTER in your garbage bin, to prevent other animals from suffering.

How many owners have just given bones to their dogs without thinking about it? Even though there might be some BONES that are relatively safe, bones are meant for recreation, not as food. When and how you give your dog a bone also matters. The basics are uncooked, large bones, supervised, for 10 -15 minutes 2 x per week.

Image by The Paw Company on hot weather pet safety.

When they are alone at Home:
Although through COVID-19 many pets have had their owners around more often, we understand that you can’t be with your pet all the time. How long they are left ALONE AT HOME, however, includes various factors. Sadly, we can share many horror stories of what happened to pets while owners were away or how many people will go away for days with no one checking in on them. This is highly irresponsible! They are your responsibility and you chose to be their guardian.

During the Holidays:
The holiday is just around the corner and many people who go away, either take their animals with them or leave them behind.  Either way, you need to plan and take safety precautions for all your animals.

Travelling with your animal family members can create wonderful memories, but it’s not always easy. Make sure you’re well-prepared before you hit the road. There are many things to consider before you take your PET ON A ROAD TRIP, including the temperament, size & safety of your pet.

Whether at home or WITH YOU ON HOLIDAY, make sure your animals are up-to-date with all vaccinations, deworming, and tick and flea treatments. Microchip your pet and make sure it is registered on multiple databases and working before you leave as well as include a collar ID. Make sure your plan for your animals is clearly stated in your will if something happens to you.

Christmas is almost here and you can feel the excitement in the air. A Christmas tree is a holiday staple for many homes, but are you aware of the dangers it poses for pets?

Remember that Christmas and easter gifts should never include live animals!

Image by Dr. Karen Becker on travel safety for pets.

In an Emergency:
Knowing what to do during an animal emergency can be the difference between life and death. When your animals suffer an injury or poisoning, knowing what FIRST AID to do can have a massive impact on their recovery, safety and comfort.  This is an important topic with much more to learn, but we touch on some of the basics.

Your pets are important members of your family, so they need to be included in your family’s EMERGENCY PLAN. To prepare for the unexpected follow these tips with your pets in mind:

  1. Make a plan.
  2. Build an emergency kit.
  3. Stay informed.

Do you have a FIRE ESCAPE PLAN which includes your pets?

Never tie up animals, especially not in extreme weather or potential floods/fire.

Around your Kids:
Many of us grew up with the tale of the rabbit and the tortoise, with a good life lesson in it, however, this lesson didn’t include how to care for them or HOW TO HANDLE THESE CREATURES physically. We do not support keeping tortoises or rabbits as pets and especially not for kids.  One of the biggest reasons for this is because there are very specific ways in which they should be handled and doing it wrong can be fatal!

CHOOSING A PET FOR YOUR CHILD is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly! Pets are a great way to learn responsibility and compassion, however, it should never be at the expense of an animal and parents should be very involved in the care.

Learning to spot the signs and teaching your children how to behave around pets is important when it comes to interactions between dogs & children. Children need to learn how to BEHAVE SAFELY near dogs and other animals. Dog bites are 100% preventable and the dog didn’t just bite out of nowhere……you missed all the signs and didn’t step in.

Your animals are your responsibility and keeping them safe is an important part of it. We also train our animals to keep them safe. 

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Source: The Bulletin
Website: www.thebulletin.co.za

 

Walking your dog? – Careful does it

/in , , , , , , , /by

Image: Pixabay

This summer is going to be a scorcher! If you and your Bulldog love your walks, please bear in mind that your Bully struggles to vent himself and the heat can possibly be deadly. But don’t give up the walks just yet, here are a few tips to ensure your bully is safe while you are out and about.

  1. Don’t walk on the tar road, if you place your hand on the tar for 10 seconds and it’s hot to the touch, bear in mind it will be hot for your Bully’s paws as well. Walk him on the sidewalk where there is grass or take him to the dog park where there is lots of trees. Hot tar roads can leave your dog’s paw pads injured and painful.
  2. Take some water along. Just like you need a drink along the way, so does your dog. Not only will it help quench his thirst, but it will help to keep him nice and cool. For bulldogs it can even be helpful if they suffer from heatstroke and you wet their body with nice cool (not freezing cold) water, to help bring their body temp down. Water is a definite must!
  3. Walk early morning or early evening, this way you avoid the hottest part of the day, and your dog is less likely to overheat.
  4. Always keep your phone with you, this is important as you will need to be able to call transport and a vet should your dog develop heat stress.
  5. Keep walks short and easy. Taking long walks with many uphill stretches can be very hard on a dog that struggles to regulate his own body temperature. Short walks around the block or up the street and back is often enough for a bulldog. This way he gets exercise and gets rid of some excess energy, but doesn’t overexert himself and run the risk of heat stroke

This summer is going to be a scorcher! If you and your Bulldog love your walks, please bear in mind that your Bully struggles to vent himself and the heat can possibly be deadly. But don’t give up the walks just yet, here are a few tips to ensure your bully is safe while you are out and about.  

If you notice your dog isn’t feeling well, end your walk immediately and get to the vet. Try and keep your dog as cool as you can while on your way there. Heatstroke is life threatening, the sooner a vet can stabilize him, the better. 

Source: English & French Bulldog Rescue SA

Looking for a Vet?
Search our Veterinary Directory!

Hot weather and your pets

/in , /by
Animals 101 – Hot weather and your pets

Photo by The Paw Company

Even though many parts of the country have recently experienced lots of rain and cooler weather, the summer is here and protecting your pets from the heat is crucial for their well-being. Heatstroke is also a health risk!

HOT WEATHER SAFETY

Here are a few tips from the Humane Society to keep your pets safe in the heat:

  • Please make sure your pets/animals are sheltered from the elements.
  • They need 24 hour access to fresh, clean and cool water. Keep their bowls out of the sun.
  • Never leave an animal alone in a vehicle, because overheating can kill them. The inside of a vehicle can reach high degrees in mere minutes, even with the windows cracked.
  • Take walks during the early morning or after sunset.
  • On very hot days, any outdoor exercise should be brief or only during the cooler hours of the day.
  • Test the pavement/ground/road with the back of your hand before you go for a walk. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Use the 5 second rule. If you can’t hold your hand on the road or pavement for 5 seconds, then it can potentially burn their paws and cause injury.
  • Never leave an animal out in the sun. Always ensure they have access to shade.
  • For those breeds with a thin coat or lighter skin, prone to sunburn, apply animal safe sunscreen.
  • Regulate the temperature inside your home. Use air-cons, fans, or give access to cooler areas like a basement or darker room with tile floors.
  • Take extra precautions with old, overweight or snub-nosed dogs in hot weather. Boston terriers, Pekingese, Pugs, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus and Bulldogs are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Dogs with heart or lung diseases should be closely monitored.
  • Watch for signs of heat stroke. These include panting, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, rapid pulse, bright red gums, and blue tongue or lips.
  • Treat heat stroke immediately. Move them to a cool place and lower their body temperature with cool (NOT icy) water, then contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
  • Provide a safe dog pool to help them cool down. This should be supervised.

WHY YOU SHOULD NOT SHAVE YOUR PET ACCORDING TO DR. KAREN BECKER

Most cats and many dogs shouldn’t have their coats shaved, even during the heat of summer. It may seem counterintuitive, but your pet’s coat actually provides heat relief in warm weather.

Many long-haired cats can require regular brushing to prevent mats that ultimately lead to a “buzzcut”. As a general rule dogs shouldn’t be shaved, either; however, there are exceptions, such as dogs with chronic hot spots. Some dogs actually really like a very short coat; in this case, consider a “puppy cut”.

Animals 101 – Hot weather and your pets

Photo by Dr. Karen Becker from Facebook page

Even in the summer we can experience some cold days! Here are our cold weather tips.

The risk of flash flooding is also a reality. See some tips below on this.

Animals 101 – Hot weather and your pets

Photo from The Paw Company Facebook page

It doesn’t matter what kind of weather we have, your animals should always be protected from the elements as you are responsible for them. If you see an animal that appears owner-less at the time, in danger, injured, in distress or one that is not protected from the elements, please contact your local SPCA immediately!

Source: The Bulletin