Summer hazards: Keeping your pets safe during your holidays

Long road trips, sunny weather, and spending time outside are typical activities that accompany summer holidays. Although such activities are fun for human beings, they pose serious risks to pets. Animals are susceptible to heat, stress, and strange environments, and animals’ safety must be considered before going out. Finding an emergency vet near you is one of the first things pet owners should do. Access to professional care could save a life if your pet becomes ill or is injured outside of the home.

Managing heat and hydration while travelling

One of the major seasonal hazards to pets is hot weather. Dogs are especially prone to heatstroke since they mainly depend on their panting ability to cool their bodies down. Moderately warm days are dangerous, too, and RSPCA outlines that even a car parked in full sunlight can reach 47°C (116°F) in an hour, which is a potentially fatal situation when animals have been locked in.

When driving, ensure that your car is adequately ventilated and that you are expected to take water breaks and rest often. Never leave the animal locked up in a car, no matter how short a time. Water bottles that can be transported easily and collapsible bowls help keep the pets hydrated. Gradually expose your pet to cooler mats or vests and use them during outdoor walks and even on travelling days.

When you observe that your pet is experiencing the effects of heat exhaustion, which include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, and lethargy, move to cool your pet down slowly. Please keep them in a cool, shady place and wet their body with cool water. You can then search for medical help from an emergency vet near you.

Risks at the destination

Travel destinations during holidays may pose new dangers. Most pets could be in danger on beaches, forests, and even the streets, rather than in rooms in their homes. On the beach, pets may develop digestive problems, having swallowed brackish water, sand, or some food that has turned bad. Paw pads can also be burnt when taken to walk on hot sand or pavement. Clean water should always be carried, and proper shade rest areas should always be present.

Pets can be exposed to ticks, poisonous plants, sharp rocks, or snakes in the bush or mountains. Even where the place appears to be secure, it is recommended that pets should be kept on a leash. Check regularly (look out for parasites), and apply brand names of preventatives for fleas and ticks that are veterinarian-approved. The PDSA stated that there is a high rise in skin infections and illnesses transmitted by ticks during warm weather months in pets.

If you’re leaving pets behind

If you are not taking your pet, consider making secure care arrangements. Prior visits must be conducted to check the cleanliness of the professional boarding houses, the qualifications of the staff, and the emergency protocols. Familiarise them with your pet’s routine, health conditions, and diet. You can also leave your pet at home under the care of a sitter. Select an experienced person and give them step-by-step instructions. They should have the times to feed and administer medications, and your contact details. Above all, teach them where to locate an emergency vet around them and what symptoms may be of urgent concern.

Prepare, protect, and stay vigilant

Pets need special care during the summer holidays, which must be planned carefully. Heat and hydration management, keeping an eye on the unknown places of interest, and every step you make will minimize the risks. Travelling with your furry friend or having someone watch after your pet makes for fewer troubles, guaranteeing a stress-free season. The most important tip is to find an emergency vet near you ahead of time.