Yahoo Finance Common pet mistake could cost you $11,000
A heatwave is sweeping the nation and if you’re hot, chances are your pet is too.
Aussies are trying to stay cool as a heatwave sweeps the nation, but some of the most beloved members of the family can often be forgotten.
Pet owners have been reminded to take precautions to keep their pet cool and safe in the extreme heat, with vet bills for heatstroke sure to put a hole in your pocket.
In the 2022 calendar year, the volume of heatstroke claims rose by 210 per cent, compared to the number of claims during spring, according to PetSure claims data.
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PetSure vet adviser Dr Betty Chan told Yahoo Finance the impact on your pet’s health from heatstroke could be very dangerous.
“A three-year old cocker spaniel was left in the car on a hot day and, by the time the owner returned to their car, the dog had collapsed,” Chan said.
“The dog was rushed to the regular vet with a temperature of 42 degrees. The vet immediately administered intravenous fluids, oxygen, water and ice to cool down the pet, and luckily the pet responded to treatment.
“The pet was lucky to have made a full recovery. The pet parent claimed a total of $8,474 for the vet bill, and was paid back a benefit of $6,673.”
Chan said, in another instance, a four-year-old French bulldog collapsed and passed out while on a walk during a hot day.
“The pet was rushed to an emergency vet hospital, where it received life-saving treatment. The pet had to stay in the intensive care unit for six days as it suffered from a number of complications relating to the heat stroke,” Chan said.
“The pet parent claimed a total of $10,965 but was reimbursed a benefit of $8,750 under their policy.”
Treatment for heat stroke is generally covered under accident and illness pet insurance policies.
How to keep your pet safe in the heat
Chan said to keep your pet safe, remember these simple tips:
Top up their drinking water: Ensure they have easy access to clean drinking water, and remember to regularly top it up throughout the day.
Avoid excessive exercise or walks during the middle of the day: With a heatwave expected to hit this weekend, avoid walking your pet between 12-2pm. Walking your four-legged friend early or later in the day when it’s cooler can help reduce their risk of heatstroke. Where possible, walk your pet on the grass or shaded areas.
Access to cool and ventilated areas: Make sure your furry friend has access to cool areas with good airflow. Open your windows, turn on your ceiling fans or air conditioning to cool down the temperature.
Don’t leave your dog in the car: Never leave your pet unattended in the vehicle. On a hot day, cars can heat up really quickly. which could put your pet at risk of heatstroke.
Make them an ice block treat: Freeze some summer fruits or vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, blueberries, banana) for a cool treat for your pet that will also provide them with enrichment. Just remember, grapes, citrus and raisins can be toxic to dogs so avoid these ingredients.\
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