Heat wave in Austria: How to protect your pets properly!

Heat wave in Austria: How to protect your pets properly!

With temperatures up to 35 degrees Celsius, which are now expected in parts of Austria, special care is required for pet owners. VOL.AT reports that dogs are primarily affected by the heat because they cannot sweat due to their physiological properties. You regulate your body temperature by panting. Older dogs are particularly at risk and can develop heat-related cardiovascular problems. Signs of overheating are extreme panting and a stretched tongue that should be reacted to quickly.

In order to ensure the well-being of the animals in the heat, experts recommend letting walks to the cooler morning and evening hours. Shady paths should be preferred to avoid hot asphalt surfaces. Pet owners should also ensure that fresh drinking water is always available to prevent dehydration. Car trips with pets should also be moved to cooler times of the day and it is vital to never leave dogs alone in parked cars, since the temperatures can increase dangerously in the shortest possible time.

Special measures for different pets

cats should be observed particularly carefully on hot days. Small animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits and birds also need protection against the heat. According to AOK, it is important not to set up the cages of these animals in direct sunlight or constant drafts. It is advisable to organize the placement of the cages in the sun hike of the day. Wet towels can be placed over the cages to reduce the air temperature. In addition, flat shells should be provided with water where the small animals can cool off on hot summer days.

In addition, it is important that outdoor enclosures offer sufficient shade for small animals. These can be created by house or natural structures such as leaves and branches. Fresh water must always be available and small portions of vegetables or fruit offer additional liquid.

cooling measures for dogs and cats

dogs can be cooled with damp towels or wet T-shirts, whereby care must be taken to change the wet in time in order to avoid overheating. Cool water is recommended, but should not be freezing cold, since ice cubes can be too huge circulatory pollution for dogs. ZDF also recommends using cooling mats that are available in animal retail and generate cooling.

A refreshing breeze from a fan can also contribute to relief, but it should not be used as a toy. Snacks such as wet food or cottage cheese can be frozen in leak mats or kongs. Such frozen snacks do not cool down the body directly, but are a healthier alternative to sugary ice products. It is important to ensure that birch sugar is highly toxic for dogs and should be avoided.

With these measures, pet owners can ensure that their animals survive the hot season healthy and pleasantly.