Still, Summer Summer time!

Summer is not over just yet and predictions are that March will be a hot one!

With temperatures predicted to soar again over 30c next week, now is the time to protect our pooches on those summer walks or outdoors and in gardens.

Temperatures Rising

Is the ground too hot to walk on? If it burns your bare feet, you can be sure it burns theirs too.

Try the 7 second rule – test your bare foot (or back of your hand) on the footpath. If it’s too hot to keep it there for up to 7 seconds, then yep, it is too hot for them to walk on.

Try to plan your walk early morning or late evening, and of course, avoid the hottest part of the day where the risk of heatstroke is at its highest (and can be life threatening).

If you’re leaving your pup/s outside make sure they always have access to shade.

Try to find shady grassed areas for walks. Much more pleasant for those little bare pads of theirs!

Slip-Slop-Slap

This might come as a surprise, but your pup can get sunburnt just like you. For short haired, hairless or fair skin pooches this can be especially true.

You can pop some sunscreen on their nose, belly and ears for extra protection.

Be Safe, Hydrate

Top tips to remember for those warmer days;

Always keep an eye on their water bowl levels – keep topped up and not in direct sunlight
Add an extra bowl of water as backup (and water bowls should be nice and fresh daily as bacteria builds up)
Add some ice blocks for them to lick or chew
Slow your walks down
Take a bowl and plenty of water with you on walks to keep your furry friend hydrated
How about a small pool for your pampered pooch?? Clam Shells sold at Bunnings are a great hack
A wet towel or blanket for them to lay on also works wonders to keep them cool

Dehydration Signs

Look for signs of dehydration and overheating such as drooling, excessive panting or lethargy
Move them to a cool area and apply some icepacks or cold towels to their head neck and chest
Give them cool water to drink

If they are not improving or are showing signs of heatstroke (see below) please seek assistance from a vet immediately.

Heatstroke

Certain breeds, as well as overweight or elderly dogs can be more susceptible to heatstroke. This can be due to their physical features limiting their ability to maintain their normal body temperatures.

It can also be due to their breathing being compromised by the shape of their skulls (such as the shorter muzzled brachycephalic breeds). Some of the highest breeds at risk include;

Chow Chow
Bulldog
French Bulldog
Dogue De Bordeaux
Pug

NEVER LEAVE THEM IN A VEHICLE
Even an overcast day with the windows down, dogs can still overheat and die in a short time.

Extra care should be taken to avoid heat stress and watch out for any signs of dehydration or heatstroke.

EARLY SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE
Whatever the type of pup you have, it is important to recognise early signs of heatstroke and act quickly.

Look for;

Excessive panting
Vomiting
Excessive drooling
Blood in stools
Collapsing

EMERGENCY FIRST AID

Cool your dog down by taking them to a cool, shady area (or preferably someone where with a fan if nearby). Pour water over their body (room temperature or cooler) and seek veterinary attention immediately.

Prevention is of course key.

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Pet Owners Pre-Travel TO DO List

Okay, so you have decided to take a break and book a much-needed and deserved holiday – hooray!

Apart from contacting Jenny about booking a House and Pet Sitter there are a bunch of things pet owners need to think about, consider, check and/or do before leaving home.

Don’t panic, we have created a Pet Owners Pre-Travel To Do list for you to take the pressure off and ease you into that holiday spirit.

Book and pay your deposit for a trusted House and Pet Sitter sitter to take care of your pet/s while you are away.
Pets sense when something is happening. The suitcases come out, clothes are washed and packed, food is stockpiled. Talk to your pet about your plans and to reassure them you are coming home again. While you are at it, tell them about the fabulous sitter that will be hanging out with them.
Contact you pet/s veterinarian
- to book a pet check-up,
- organise any medication they may need when you are away,
- let your vet know in writing, a sitter will be looking after your pet and arrange necessary permissions to act on your behalf while you ar away.
Make notes about your pet/s behaviour, favourite toy, hiding places, games to play, what your sitter can expect and ways to handle situations. This will make a difference to your pet, your sitter and you when you return home.
Check your Home and Contents Insurance to ensure your home and contents is covered for the time you are away and does not become void with a sitter in your home.
Make a list of regular and trusted repairers, just in case something breaks or stops working and your sitter can easily contact them.
If you don’t have one already, organise a spare key for your home. Whether you hide it somewhere, give it to a trusted neighbour or nearby family member is up to you. Better safe than sorry.
Check and double check your departure and arrival times – this is one thing you do not want to get wrong.
Let your trusted neighbours know you will be away and a House and Pet Sitter will be in the house to take care of your pets and valuables.
If all the above is covered, then close your suitcase, sit back and relax. Your home and pet/s will be in good hands and all you need to do is enjoy your holiday – you deserve it.

To enquire about or book your next house and pet sit call Jenny on 0400 611 840 or email jenny@houseandpetsitters.com.au