BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER

Toronto is currently under a pretty gnarly heatwave so, we thought this would be the perfect time to remind you that pets are at the greatest risk of injury and heat-related health problems during the summer months.

Follow these tips (c/o City of Toronto) to keep your pet safe and cool:

- Provide plenty of fresh water
- Watch out for sunburn
- Find a cool place - never leave a pet unattended in hot weather on balconies or unsheltered backyards
- Watch how much pets eat and exercise
- Never ever leave your pet in a parked car

How to help ( c/o PetPlan ):

During hot weather, limit exercise to early morning and evening, and avoid the hottest part of the day – particularly if your dog is one of the at-risk breeds above.

• Know their temperature risks:

  • 15°C – presents no risk to most dogs.

  • 18°C – no risk for smaller and medium-sized dogs but larger breeds may experience difficulty, however unlikely

  • 21°C – unlikely risk for smaller and medium-sized dogs, but there is a potential hazard for larger dogs

  • 23°C – potential hazard for all dogs

  • 26°C – potential hazard for smaller and medium dogs, this can be dangerous for larger dogs

  • 29°C – dangerous for smaller and medium dogs, potentially life-threatening for larger dogs

• As a quick test, press the back of your hand against the pavement. If it’s too hot for you to touch, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws, so wait a while longer for walkies, or stick to grassy tracks.

• Never leave your dog unattended in your car on a warm day – temperatures can rapidly reach dangerous levels.