Western Sydney pet owners warned to look for heat stress

Western Sydney pet owners have been warned to keep a close eye on their furry friends with temperatures set to hit 40 degrees this week - putting them at risk of serious health conditions.

Wilfred the labrador keeping cool. Picture: Stewart McLean

Pet owners have been warned to keep a watchful eye on animals as western Sydney sweats through sweltering temperatures this week.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast the mercury to pass 40 degrees in Penrith for the remainder of the week, peaking with a maximum of 45 on Friday.

Blacktown temperatures are expected to range in the high 30s today and on Thursday before hitting 42 on Friday when Australia’s heatwave will be in full swing.

Vet Alex Whan is with Sid the staffy beating the hot weather with the help of a fan.

The RSPCA has reminded the public to be aware of heatstroke — or heat stress — in animals during extreme heat days, saying vet clinics often see a spike in presentations during summer.

In a column for NewsLocal this week, University of Sydney lecturer Dr Anne Fawcett said water should be available all day and owners should avoid walking their pets.

Dr Fawcett said animals should not be exposed to the sun for long periods and some owners should consider grooming pets with heavy coats.

Signs of heatstroke / heat stress in dogs and cats. Picture: RSPCA

“Look out for signs of heat stress, which can include panting, loud and laboured breathing, salivation, collapsing, vomiting and diarrhoea,” she said.

Anxiety and distress are also signs of heatstroke.

Animals who are overweight, have breathing or heart problems, and are either young or old (puppies or elderly pets) are already predisposed to heat stress.

Flat-faced breeds like pugs, English and French bulldogs, and Persian and Himalayan cats are also at a higher risk.

What to do if you suspect your pet has heatstroke:

• Remove your pet from the hot environment immediately.
• Apply or spray tepid/cool water onto the animal’s fur and skin. Then apply a fan/fanning to maximise heat loss.
• Wetting down the area around your pet can also help.
• Don’t use ice-cold water or ice — this may worsen the problem.
• Take your pet to the nearest veterinarian immediately.
• Heatstroke is an emergency — always see a vet, even if your pet looks like they are recovering.

Details: https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/health/heatstroke-hyperthermia