Summer celebrations and warmer weather might be ideal for humans, but simple seasonal moments – from festive decorations and fireworks to heatwaves and holiday travel – can quickly become hazardous for furry family members. Vets, in fact, often see a spike in pet admissions over the summer holidays, with curiosity often getting the proverbial cat. Here's our guide to the most common summer dangers – and the practical ways you can keep your pets safe, calm and healthy throughout the warmer months.
How to: manage hazards over Christmas
The festive season is full of sparkle, smells and tempting treats – and our dogs and cats notice it all. The most common reasons pets end up at the vet over the summer include gastritis, foreign-body ingestion, lacerations or bite wounds, and chocolate poisoning. Treatments for these issues can be both lengthy and costly, so keep an eye out for these common Christmas hazards to help avoid an unexpected trip to the vet:
- Christmas lights
A chewable temptation, the lights and cables that keep us merry and bright can cause quite a fright for our pets (especially if they already have a tendency to chew). Keep cords and lights out of reach, especially when pets are unsupervised.
- Cooked bones
While it may be appealing to share leftover turkey or the last of the chicken roast with your dog, cooked bones can be surprisingly dangerous. They can splinter and cause a choking hazard, so it’s best to avoid giving them to your pets altogether.
- Tinsel and decorations
Our feline friends are especially drawn to anything that sparkles or dangles, tinsel included. Swallowing tinsel, however, can cause serious digestive issues. Avoid placing it within reach of curious paws to minimise the temptation.
How to: maintain calmness over New Year's
Fireworks and loud parties might be your favourite way to ring in the New Year but the noises of both can be stressful for pets. A few small changes can make a big difference.
Keep pets indoors. Before and during fireworks displays, bring your pets inside or provide a safe, secure enclosure. If you can bring them indoors, close windows, blinds and curtains once they're settled to soften the sound and block out flashes of light.
Diffuse the noise. Play calming music or turn the TV on to help mask the sound of fireworks.
Use calming aids. Anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers or natural supplements may help alleviate stress and are available from your vet or local pet store. If you're an existing policyholder, you can access a registered Australian vet who may be able to guide you – via video or chat – through calming your pet in minutes with Live Vet>, which is available 24/7.
How to: keep your pets cool this summer
One of the biggest threats to pets in summer is overheating. Dogs and cats can be prone to heatstroke. You may notice their efforts to keep themselves cool: it's usually obvious through their panting and efforts to seek out external cooling sources. To help your dog or cat stay cool:
- Provide constant access to fresh water by keeping multiple water bowls around the house and in outdoor areas. Remember top them up regularly. In extremely warm weather, it can help to add ice cubes to the water. You can also freeze water in a reusable container to create an ice block for pets to lick.
- Create cool resting spots with shade. Fans or air-conditioned rooms are ideal for beating the heat.
- Avoid the midday sun. Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
- Never leave pets in a parked car. Even on mild days, car interiors heat up fast. It only takes a few minutes for temperatures to become deadly.
How to: keep parasites at bay
Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes thrive in warm weather. Help protect your pets with vet-recommended preventative steps and learn how to identify if your dog or cat has been bitten. Checking them regularly for vermin during the warmer months as well as all year round, can help avoid costly expenses down the line.
How to: take your pets on happy holidays
Heading away this summer? If you’re planning to take your furry companions on holiday, make sure they travel safely and comfortably. Our guide to pet-friendly camping spots across Tasmania is full of tips on how to safely tow with animals as well as the best locations to enjoy pet-friendly adventures.
If your pets are staying home, consider a trusted sitter or boarding option so they can enjoy their own little holiday while you enjoy yours.***
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***This relates to all general veterinary information provided in this article. Please consult with your vet before acting on it.
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