Allpets Narrabri is issuing a warning to pet owners across the local area.

As temperatures soar in regional NSW, the vets ask extra precautions be taken in order to keep all animals safe.

Businessowner Stacey Dunn says the warmer days have brought with them a greater chance of heat-related pet issues.

“We all need to be really aware of the higher temperatures and humidity levels,” she said.

“Even if the temperatures are low, your pet might still be at risk if it’s really humid.

“Summer is a common time for pets to suffer from heat stress, so extra measures should be put in place to keep them cool.”

Mrs Dunn suggests plenty of fresh water should be available for your animals.

“This means making sure water bowls are kept full, and maybe setting out a few extra bowls for wildlife like birds,” she said.

“You might even consider sprinklers or a kiddie pool – these are especially popular among dogs.”

In addition to plenty of water, ample shade and ventilation should be available so pets aren’t bearing the full force of direct summer sun.

An example of this is poultry owners rearranging chicken coops, so the birds aren’t tempted to stay boxed in all day.

“Considerations should be made for pets on the move too,” Mrs Dunn added.

“If you’ve got a working dog on the back on your ute, they should have shade to rest underneath.

“Which is also a reminder to never keep your pets locked in a vehicle alone, especially in summer, even if you have the window cracked – it’s just not safe.”

Heat should be considered when exercising pets too, according to Mrs Dunn.

“We recommend walking your dogs at night, or even early in the morning, to ensure they don’t get too hot,” she said.

“Going for a walk in the middle of the day will not only cause the animal’s body temperatures to rise faster, but the tar and concrete can burn their paws if the surface is too hot.”

For any pets with breathing difficulties, Mrs Dunn suggests bringing them inside.

“For example, certain dog breeds with short noses often have breathing issues, like pugs and bulldogs, and can really suffer in the heat,” she said.

“So bringing them indoors, where they can relax in the air-conditioning, might be an option to consider.”

Another danger that comes with the Australian summer is a resurgence in active snake populations.

Mrs Dunn says Allpets have already treated a number of local animals that have suffered from snake bites since the beginning of spring.

“Snakes are everywhere this season, unfortunately,” she said.

“So outside pets are at risk of coming in contact with a snake.”

Mrs Dunn warned that, if your pet is bitten, you should immediately seek medical attention.

“It is common for pets to collapse and vomit, then seem to recover afterwards,” she said.

“But they can still be affected by the venom, even if they look fine, so you need to take them to the vets.

“When transporting the animal to seek medical assistance, keep them as still as possible – and, if you have bandages on hand, wrap up the bite area.”

Allpets Narrabri have a full surgical suite and everything needed to help your animal recover from a deadly bite.

They use their specialised blood machines to help diagnose the condition, as well as anti-venom supplies, an IV drip and breathing equipment such as oxygen and ventilators.

The team have an on-call system for such emergencies so, if a snake bite occurs outside of work hours, you can still contact a vet.

This after-hours line means there’s always someone available to help, 24 hours of the day.

You can get in touch with Allpets Narrabri on (02) 5733 8804, or reach them after-hours on (02) 5733 8804.

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