Gozo News

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Pets, animals and birds, both wild and domestic, need help in hot weather The heat of summer is here and we want to remind everyone that it’s not just humans who suffer in hot weather, water and shade are essential for your pets, other animals and birds, both wild and domestic.

It is very important that we also do not forget that stray animals on the street need access to water and it is a good idea to place small water bottles outside your home wherever possible.

Another possible situation of heat stroke is when dogs and other animals are left in hot cars waiting for ferries in Malta and Gozo.

With the weekend just around the corner, anyone travelling between islands with animals in the coming days should take the following precautions as recommended by animal organisations:

Try to take the ferry in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler, but be sure to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Provide fresh, cool water for your companion animal; it is important that the water is not too cold, nor too hot. While you wait, keep the side windows open and use screens on the front and back windows.

Owners should not walk their dogs on asphalt roads during the heat of the day – If they try walking on it barefoot themselves, they will understand how hot asphalt can burn a dog’s paws, even if only for a few seconds.

When a pet becomes distressed and begins to pant, owners should place a wet towel in a cool bag to wrap the pet around.

Heat stroke can be life-threatening and should be taken seriously.

If a dog or cat shows signs of heat stroke (excessive panting or labored breathing), owners should seek veterinary advice immediately; immediate action may save your pet’s life.

Dogs should not be left in ferry vehicle parking areas during ferry crossings, and dogs should never be left unattended in vehicles at any time, especially in the summer.

Summer temperatures continue to rise rapidly in a closed vehicle. However, did you know that dogs are much more affected by rising temperatures than humans when left in a closed vehicle? In less than 15 minutes, a dog can suffer from heat stroke, which can be fatal.