Abu Dhabi: An Abu Dhabi vet has warned pet owners against taking dogs for long walks during summer months as it can kill them.
“Taking your dog for long walks in the heat is a recipe for disaster. It can prove fatal to the animal,” Dr Cicilia Muller of the German Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi said.
She said she has already seen two cases this summer where dogs have died of heat exhaustion. “Every week we receive several cases dogs suffering from heat exhaustion caused by over-exposure to the sun. The sad part is that pet owners don’t realise that their dog is unwell until it collapses. Many don’t even make it to the vet.”
Hands full
Dr Muller said vets in Abu Dhabi have their hands full with cases of dogs suffering from heat-related disorders. “This can stop if pet owners take caution while walking their dogs.”
Stub-nosed varieties like pugs, bulldogs, boxers and thick-furred dogs like huskies, German Shepherds and Chow Chow are the most vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, she said. If you have to take them for a walk, make sure it’s either early in the morning or late evening.
The symptoms of heat exhaustion in dogs are excessive panting, dehydration and weakness. “If they show any of these symptoms, put a wet towel on their back and give them water,” said the vet.
Jackie Covill who runs the voluntary organisation, Sandy Paws, said the condition of street cats is worse. “We are struggling to save cats. Every week, around five die on the streets,” said Covill.
She said the volunteers are facing a tough time finding foster homes for cats. “It is the worst summer ever. People are simply refusing to open their doors for animals in distress. We are at our wits’ end,” said Covill.
