The Balerow Aussie Bull-Blog

Outlined below are some of the steps owners can take to ensure their beloved pets do not suffer the irreversible effects of heat stroke.

This topic is of particular significance for all owners of short faced breeds including bulldogs and our very own Australian bulldogs who are also prone to suffer from heat related stresses. However this need not be an issue if owners are cautious and follow some simple steps:

* Make sure their animals have access to plenty of cool, fresh, clean water at all times.

* Put the water bowl in a spot where it stays shady all day and where the animal can not knock it over.
* Make sure the animal has access to cool spots where it can rest in the hottest parts of the day; either under a big, shady tree or in the shade where there is cool concrete or grass for it to lie on.
* Recognise that when it gets really hot, some animals may need help to get cool, by running cool water over them or by providing a wading pool.
* Remember that fat animals find it harder to lose body heat and get cool, so keep animals fit and trim.
* Make sure animal houses, such as cages and tanks, have free air flow and are kept out of the sun.
* Do not confine animals in small places on hot days, such as inside cars, as they need room to move around and airflow to help them cool off.
* Provide matting in the back of utes and try to park in the shade as much as possible. (Balerow does not condone the restraining of any dog on the back of utes. All animals should be kept in the cabin- not only is it dangerous but its irresponsible.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 18th, 2007 at 11:05 am and is filed under Health Info, Articles. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.