Summer safety tips for pets

Yarra City Council
A wire-haired dachshund dog basks in the sun while sitting in a camp chair in the outdoors. It is wearing sunglasses and a Hawaiian lei.

The festive season will soon be upon us, with summer, school breaks, and Santa’s arrival in sight.

But it’s also a time to take extra care of our furry family members.

Summer heat

  • Hot weather can be dangerous for pets if they are unable to stay cool. Ways to help:
  • Ensuring your pet has access to drinking water at all times.
  • If your pet is outside, make sure there is shade available for them.
  • Never leave your pet unattended inside a parked car.
  • Be mindful of hot footpaths – to avoid your dog experiencing painful burns on their paws, the RSPCA recommends walking dogs early in the morning or in the evening. The RSPCA’s Dr Brooke Hasler also recommends the 10-second touch test. “I usually tell owners to place their bare hands or bare feet on a sun-exposed surface for 10 seconds – if they experience discomfort, then it’s too hot for their dog’s paws.”

How to plan for your pets if going away over the holidays

Planning with pets is key when you’re organising a trip away. Take some time to consider whether you will take your pet on holiday with you or not. Make sure your pet is microchipped, registered, is wearing its tag and that their details are up to date – whether they are coming on the trip or not.

/Public Release. View in full here.