How to keep your pets safe in the Townsville heat
Date published: 20 December 2019
With summer in full swing, it’s essential to make sure your furry friends are well looked after during the Christmas holidays.
Townsville can expect temperatures ranging from about 25°C to 35°C through to the end of January next year.
Community Health and Environment Committee Chairwoman, Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney, said pets were particularly vulnerable during the height of summer.
“Our pets are completely dependent on us to look after them, so it’s important that we make them comfortable and help them beat the heat this summer,” Cr Greaney said.
She said it was vitally important to not walk pets in the heat of the day.
“Make sure you walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day, either in the early morning or after sunset,” she said.
“An important rule of thumb is to remember that if bitumen burns your feet, it will burn your pet’s paws too.”
Cr Greaney said there were plenty of easy ways to make sure cats and dogs are properly looked after during the summertime.
“The main one is to make sure they’re given the chance to cool down,” she said.
“Put out damp towels for your cat or dog to lie down on, add ice cubes to their water bowl to help keep the water cool, and make sure there are plenty of shady spots around the house and backyard for your pet to snooze in.”
Top tips to keep your pet cool
- Walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day. Remember if the bitumen burns your feet, it will burn paws also.
- Add ice cubes to their water bowl to keep the water cool.
- Set up a paddling pool for your dog.
- Put out damp towels for your pet to sleep on.
- Avoid the car when it’s hot – and never leave your pet alone in it.
- Make sure your pet has access to shade.
- Make pet safe frozen treats for pets to lick.
- Leave aircon or fan on for indoor pets.
- Provide a shady spot to snooze in when they get too hot.
