The Currie Cup champions – and our favourite rugby team – The Sharks have donated three kennels to the Durban & Coast SPCA. The SPCA said it was grateful to our all conquering champions for their generosity and kindness.
In the picture is the SPCA’s “dog whisperer” – Richard Dladla – dressed in black and white in support of his favourite team, and an orphaned Dalmation who joined him (and didn’t have to dress up at all)!
Help keep your pet cool this summer
It may seem obvious that plenty of water and shade are essential for pets throughout the year – but in warm weather these are lifesaving. Ensure that fresh water (placed out of direct sunlight) is available to your animals at all times and that they have adequate cool shelter from the heat.
It may also seem obvious that pets shouldn’t be left in cars – even for short periods of time – yet the SPCA is still called out to rescue pets from vehicles.
A dog’s normal body temperature is around 38ºC. They can withstand a body temperature of 41ºC for only a very short time before suffering irreparable brain damage or death. The confines of a car interfere with a dog’s normal cooling process – which is evaporation through panting – and they suffer massive stress very quickly under these conditions.
In summer it’s also wise to exercise caution with exercise. Aim to walk or jog with your dogs either early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
Quality playtime – at home – may be preferable in heat wave conditions. Pavements and roads retain heat and paws can burn … Remember, your dog’s much closer to the hot surface than you are. Try walking barefoot on hot pavement or brickwork and you’ll soon understand how your dog’s paws feel – they can burn!
Heat exhaustion
When the forecast is 35C for instance – bear in mind that this is the temperature in the shade! Be vigilant. If you see animals in distress please contact your nearest SPCA. This might include sightings of trucks carrying animals; a breakdown; or an accident where animals are being transported.
If your dog shows any sign of discomfort or distress in the heat – give immediate first aid by immersing him in cool water until his body temperature is lowered. Then get him to a vet – who will check to see if he’s suffered any harm.