FREEZING treats in ice cubes and feeding them to your dog is a fun way to help pets stay cool in summer, veterinarian nurse Roz Martin says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
“It will also keep them entertained and help maintain good teeth,” Ms Martin, who works at Gowrie Vet Clinic, said.
Veterinarian Gundula Rhoades started the clinic in 2002 on her property just outside Inverell.
With expansion over the years, Dr Rhoades moved the practice into town in 2010.
Gowrie Vet Clinic, on Yetman Road, now has three vets, including Lyddy van Gyen and James Moody, as well as full nursing staff.
The clinic provides a range of care for all animals, including general consultations, dentistry, microchipping and surgery.
“Our mission is to provide friendly customer service and to practise the highest quality medical care while treating your pet,” Ms Martin said. She provided a number of tips for pet owners wanting to keep their animals cool over the summer months
- For pets such as rabbits that are kept in cages, think about installing a small sprinkler system to keep them cool.
- Keep cages out of direct sunlight.
- If you are taking your pet on a long road trip, make regular stops so the animals can stretch their legs and take in water.
- If you are leaving your animals for any length of time, make sure someone can come and check for adequate food and water, that bedding is in the shade and there are plenty of shady spots.
“We're happy to discuss your queries any time. Just drop into the clinic, or make an appointment to see us, we're open seven days a week,” Ms Martin said.
It’s also important not to walk your dog during the heat of the day – go in the early morning or evening to prevent your pup from dehydrating or burning its paws on hot pavement or asphalt.
Never leave a pet alone in a vehicle, even with windows down or if parked in the shade. Dogs on the back of utes can also burn their footpads or bodies on the trays.
A clam shell pool in the shade filled with water provides somewhere for a dog to wade in the water to keep cool. (Be pool safe if there are children around.)
Alternatively, try wetting your pet’s feet and misting water on to its face. This is an option for dogs, cats, ferrets, poultry and caged birds; many animals control their inner temperature through their feet. However, don’t saturate a bird’s feathers as this can cause shock.
Because rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, rats, mice and ferrets are often kept in cages, they’re not always able to seek out cooler places themselves. The sun moves, so enclosures need to be moved too. For more information, phone Gowrie Vet Clinic on 6721 2277.