Is Your Pet Ready for the Heat? Summer Safety Essential Guide

Hot weather can be deadly for pets. As summer temperatures rise, our companions face serious risks from extreme heat. Because dogs and cats cannot sweat like humans, they overheat much faster.

Here is what you need to know to keep your pets safe this season.

Major Risks of Hot Weather

• Heatstroke: A life-threatening medical emergency caused by body overheating.
• Paw Burns: Hot pavement, sand, and asphalt can blister sensitive paw pads.
• Dehydration: Lack of water leads to organ damage and shock.
• Sunburn: Pets with white fur or thin coats can get sunburned.

The Extra Danger for Flat-Faced (Brachycephalic) Breeds

Flat-faced breeds—such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Persian cats—are at a much higher risk in hot weather.

• Inefficient Cooling: Their shortened airways make panting far less effective at cooling them down.
• Rapid Overheating: They can suffer from heatstroke in temperatures that other dogs can tolerate.
• Strict Exercise Limits: Avoid any strenuous exercise or walks for these breeds on warm days.
• Air Conditioning Needed: Keep flat-faced pets indoors in air-conditioned or well-ventilated, cool rooms.

Warning Signs of Heat Distress

• Heavy, frantic panting or loud, raspy breathing
• Excessive drooling or thick saliva
• Lethargy, weakness, or collapsing
• Bright red, dark, or purple gums
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Disorientation and stumbling

How to Reduce the Danger

• Never leave pets in cars: Car interiors can reach fatal temperatures in minutes.
• Test the pavement: Touch the asphalt with your hand for seven seconds; if too hot for you, it burns their paws.
• Shift walk times: Exercise pets only during the cooler early mornings or late evenings.
• Provide constant water: Place multiple water bowls around, adding ice cubes to keep them chilled.
• Create cooling zones: Use shaded areas, fans, cooling mats, or damp towels for your pet.

What to Do in an Emergency

If you suspect your pet has heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately. Pour cool—never freezing—water over their body and call our clinic right away. Freezing water causes blood vessels to constrict, worsening the condition.

Emergency Contact: Call us immediately at 090 649 2623 if your pet shows any signs of heat stress.

Food

We all like to indulge during the festive season, and there are plenty of safe treats that can be given to our pets. However, many of the traditional celebration foods can be harmful, even in small quantities.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is toxic to cats, causing vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, hyperactivity, seizures and eventually liver failure. It can be rapidly fatal, even in relatively small amounts. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is. So don’t leave chocolates lying around and avoid those that hang on the Christmas tree – keep all chocolate safely out of your pet’s reach.

Christmas pudding and mince pies

Grapes (and all derivatives, such as raisins, currants and sultanas) can be toxic. The exact mechanism is unknown, but even very small amounts can cause acute kidney failure and death. Mince pies, chocolate raisins, Christmas cake and Christmas pudding are all potentially harmful.

Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners such as xylitol are found in many sweets, as well as chewing gum and other products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Xylitol is a particular problem in cats causing a huge release of insulin, which make blood sugar levels fall to dangerously low levels. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting and seizures and prompt treatment is essential.

Nuts

Large amounts of macadamia nuts can cause adverse reactions, including fevers, stiffness or lameness and tremors. Signs usually occur within 12 hours of ingestion. Contact your veterinarian if you think your cat may have had access to macadamia nuts.

Onions

Members of the Allium family include onions, garlic, leeks and shallots. They can be found in many festive foods, including stuffing. They can cause upset stomachs, but the main concern is that they can cause destruction of red blood cells, causing severe anemia. This affect may not happen for a few days after ingestion but can be extremely serious depending on the volume eaten. If your cat develops red or brown urine after eating onions, then you must seek immediate veterinary attention. Other signs of poisoning that relate to anemia include tiredness, unwilling to exercise and general depression.

Over-eating

As many will relate to, over-indulgence is all too easy during the festive period. Our cats are smaller in bodyweight than us, and what we might consider a few small titbits can easily mount up. Gastric upsets, bloated stomachs, acute diarrhea are all best avoided by reining in the amount of extras fed, and keeping tempting food out of reach.

Decorations

Decorating the house is a fun part of the season, but care must be taken to make the house safe for our cats.

Baubles

Glass baubles can shatter into fragments, which can be sharp and cause injury if eaten or walked on. Shatterproof, plastic baubles or fabric tree decorations are safer, but can cause obstructions if eaten.

Tinsel

Tinsel is shiny and long and looks very much like a cat toy! If swallowed, it can be a choke hazard or cause an obstruction. Always keep tinsel well secured or out of reach.

Lights

Cats are often fascinated by Christmas lights, and will often want to investigate – which may involve attempting to climb the tree! Cats can be burnt by the bulbs or electrocute themselves by chewing through cables. More commonly, they can become entangled in the cables and panic, which can then lead to injury. Remember to unplug the lights when out, and keep cables safely taped and away from access.

Candles

Enthusiastic investigation of a lit candle can be a fire hazard, and the flame and hot wax can cause burns to paws or noses. Never leave candles unsupervised when lit, and preferably keep them high up or in a safe place.

Festive plants

Decorating the house with greenery will look wonderful, but many plants popular in the festive season can be hazardous to cats.

Poinsettia

Colorful and very Christmassy, this plant can cause irritation to the mouth, throat and stomach lining if eaten, leading to excessive drooling and sometimes vomiting.

Holly and mistletoe

The berries of both these plants can cause an upset stomach and can cause quite severe vomiting if ingested in large quantities.

Lilies

Lily plants are highly toxic to cats, and if any part of the plant is ingested can cause serious illness. Red lilies are popular at Christmas-time but should be kept well away from our feline companions.

Christmas trees

Real and artificial trees both have different problems for cats. Real trees drop pine needles which can be sharp and cause irritation. Cats can tread on needles, and they can penetrate the skin or, if eaten, they can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract. Artificial trees can shed small bits of plastic, which may be eaten and cause obstruction in the gut. Trees can also be sprayed with preservatives or fake snow, which can be toxic, either if chewed or if leached into water at the base of the tree which is then drunk by your pet.

Christmas trees can also be irresistible toys to cat, especially kittens. Cats love to climb, and may jump up at the tree to reach decorations. Make sure your tree is secured safely with a very stable base. It may be necessary to use furniture or a stair gate to prevent access to the tree if there is too much interest.

Other hazards

Wrapping paper

Wrapping paper is of low toxicity, although can cause staining of the mouth which can be alarming to see. If eaten in large quantities, it can cause an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract.

Ribbons

Cats love playing with ribbons from parcel wrapping or tinsel from decorations. However, ribbon like playthings can cause a serious obstruction in cats if eaten. If you know that your cat has swallowed anything unusual then you should always get immediate veterinary attention.

Potpourri

Potpourri is highly scented and can be attractive to cats. If eaten, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea that can last for several days. In most cases signs resolve within a few days without treatment but some of the essential oils used to scent the potpourri can be toxic and you should always contact your veterinarian for advice if you are concerned.

Batteries

Many Christmas toys and gadgets require batteries, and so there are often plenty purchased around this time of year. Make sure that they are always kept well out of reach of cats. If batteries are eaten corrosive chemicals can leak out and cause severe burns to the stomach and intestines. Batteries may also become lodged somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract and cause signs of obstruction (vomiting and depression).

What to do in an emergency

If you are unsure what constitutes an emergency, you can always call for some advice. Here are some holiday hazards that may require a trip to an out of hours veterinarian:

• Ingestion of toxic foodstuffs including chocolate, moldy food, raisins or foods containing artificial sweeteners.
• Persistent vomiting where your cat cannot keep anything down and is unwell in themselves.
• Tremors, persistent muscle twitching or seizures.
• Ingestion of decorations, tinsel, ribbons or large amounts of wrapping paper.
• Ingestion of batteries.
• Exposure to lilies.

Nancy, the 15-year-old beagle, was infected but received early treatment and survived. (Image: The Irish Blue Cross)

An Irish animal charity has warned pet owners about the dangers of lungworm after observing a spike in cases.

The Irish Blue Cross operates 11 clinics scattered across Dublin, and staff have reported an increase in the number of cases being diagnosed. Lungworm is a parasitic infection that can cause severe health complications in dogs. In severe cases or if it’s left untreated, the condition can be fatal

Frogs, slugs and snails spread lungworm, so dogs can contract the infection while playing outside, drinking from puddles, or encountering surfaces contaminated by slime from slugs and snails.

With the colder weather rolling in, slugs and snails are also becoming more active, as they no longer need to hide from the heat. The parasites they can carry also thrive in these mild and damp conditions, which increases the risk of exposure.

Laura Mock, Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross said: “Lungworm is a silent threat to dogs in Ireland, but the good news is that it’s preventable.

“Pet owners can protect their dogs by speaking to their vet about the right parasite control and staying alert to the outdoor risks. We also advise against leaving toys and bowls outside where slugs and snails can crawl over them.”

The charity highlighted some of the common symptoms that may indicate lungworm, these include:

• Persistent coughing or breathing difficulties
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding.
• Low energy.
• Reluctance to exercise.
• In severe cases, a dog may experience seizures or collapse.

Fleas and ticks aren’t just a nuisance—they pose serious health risks to your pets and your family. These tiny parasites can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and tapeworms, and can cause allergic reactions or severe skin irritation in pets.

Why Prevention Matters

• Fleas can lay up to 50 eggs a day, quickly leading to infestations.
• Ticks thrive in grassy, wooded, or even urban areas and can latch onto pets during walks or outdoor play.
• Some tick-borne illnesses can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Tips for Effective Control

• Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives year-round.
• Check your pets regularly, especially after outdoor activities.
• Keep your yard tidy: mow grass, remove leaf litter, and discourage wildlife that may carry ticks.
• Wash pet bedding frequently and vacuum carpets and furniture to eliminate flea eggs and larvae.

Whether you have a curious cat or an adventurous dog, consistent flea and tick prevention is key to keeping them healthy and happy. If you’re unsure which product is right for your pet, our veterinary team is here to help—contact us today on 09064492623 for personalized recommendations!

“WAVES” explains Peter Bishton, Veterinary Ireland’s Deputy Chief Executive, “stands for WAter, VEntilation and Shade. These are the three things essential to all pets during the summer months, and Veterinary Ireland uses this short acronym to help pet owners keep their dog and cat family members safe and healthy throughout the summer”.

“Having adequate drinking water available for your pet at all times is of prime importance,” explains Mr Bishton, “in order to ensure that your pet is adequately hydrated.  Ensure that water bowls are kept topped up, and when out, have a separate water bottle available for your dog.  A pop-up camping bowl is also useful to ensure that your dog can take in adequate water.  Short drinks on a regular basis are better than one long drink, and make sure that the water is not too cold”.

According to Mr Bishton, while water is an important factor for hydration, there are also water-based risk factors.  “On hot days, the temptation may be for your dog to cool down by taking a splash in a river, lake or pond. Before letting your dog jump in, please check the water.  Where algae are growing in the water or are visible on the shoreline, there may be an increased risk of algae poisoning – algae can produce toxins which may be lethal to dogs.  Should your dog swallow any algae, please consult your vet immediately.

“Even if the water is safe from algae, when throwing anything into a river or lake for your dog to fetch, please be aware that there is the potential for drowning.  Secondary Drowning, where the dog takes in too much water when opening its mouth, while not common, can happen, and the risk of drowning increases during the summer months, through a higher rate of exhaustion, or from cooling down too rapidly”.

While most people would know that keeping a dog in the car during a hot spell is dangerous, it is equally important to ensure that any accommodation, such as a bedroom, kitchen, or especially a glazed conservatory, is kept at a comfortable temperature for your dog or cat.

“Ventilation is a major factor in keeping your dog or cat comfortable in summer, and provides not only a cooling breeze, but also assists the pet to breath and pant to cool down”.

Unlike humans, dogs are not able to sweat through the skin, but cool down through panting. Panting is not as efficient as sweating and so dogs can find it difficult to cool down as quickly as humans when it is hot. Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs or Pekingese, are specifically at-risk during summer months as selective breeding has created respiratory problems in many of these breeds, making it harder for them to breathe normally, let alone be able to pant in hot weather.

Providing a cool, shaded space for your pet to rest, either at home or when out, is essential.  “Shade is critically important, as dogs and cats can also suffer from sunburn,” states Mr Bishton.  “Ears, noses, paw pads, and areas where the fur is thinner, such as on the stomach, can all get burnt in the summer sun. While there are sun protection products available from your own vet, the best action is to create a shady spot for your companion animal. While it may be easier to create a shady spot at home, either in the house or in the garden, if out with your dog find a cool spot under trees or bushes, or carry a light shawl with you, and create a shelter where your dog can rest and enjoy a drink of water”.

Other factors to bear in mind during the summer include when to exercise your pet dog.  “A dog’s exercise should be timed for the cooler parts of the day, especially for larger dogs or those with thicker coats.  The summer sun can also increase the temperature underfoot, and hot tarmac, concrete and beach sand can burn the paw pads of dogs. The overall age and health of your dog should also be considered when exercising, as any existing condition can be exacerbated by the summer environment, especially for those dogs with any heart, kidney or breathing problems’, explains Mr Bishton.

For any aspect of care for your companion animal, at any time of year, your vet is the best person to contact with any questions, or to seek specific advice.  Keep the veterinary practice’s number in your mobile and do not hesitate to call.

“Don’t forget”, concludes Mr Bishton, “it is essential to provide plenty of fresh water, adequate ventilation and cool shade for your dog, whatever it is doing – so be sure to give your pet dog or cat plenty of WAVES this summer!”.

Has your dog’s vaccination lapsed?

Avail of our vaccination amnesty now.

Primay course of 2 vaccines for the

price of a booster vaccine – Saving €34!!

(for dogs over 18 months of age who

haven’t had a vaccine in 15 months)

We appreciate these things can get missed due to busy times, holidays or maybe financial pressures.  Suddenly you realise the vaccination has lapsed and to get good immunity your pet needs to have a full course of vaccinations.  The vaccination covers your best friend against a range of potentially life-threatening diseases, including distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis.

With this in mind, we are running a SPECIAL OFFER from now until 31st March 2025 providing a full course of primary injections at the price of a booster where you can SAVE you up to €34 on the usual cost! 

This means your pet will receive two vaccinations, four weeks apart and will include a full clinical examination by a veterinary surgeon.

The offer is available for dogs over 18 months and who have not had a vaccination within the last 15 months.

To book an appointment for this money saving initiative go to https://familyvets.ie/booking/#appointment-type  or give us a call on0906492623 where a member of the team will be happy to help.

Full details on your pet’s vaccinations can be found here.

VACCINE AMNESTY – TERMS & CONDITIONS

• The Vaccine Amnesty at Family Vets Athlone will run from 01.02.25 to 31.03.25 and at this time is available for dogs only.
• The first vaccination must be booked in and given before 31.03.25 to qualify.
• Available for dogs over 18 months of age, who have not received a vaccination in the last 15 months.
• The vaccine amnesty offer is a way to get your pet’s vaccination status back up to date at a minimal cost whilst also benefiting from a health assessment.
• Full vet health assessment means a physical examination of your pet by a veterinary surgeon.
• All consultations are by appointment only.
• The vaccine is a course of two injections which are required exactly 4 weeks apart* (please bear this in mind when making an appointment). Annual boosters are advised in subsequent years to keep your pet protected.

*It is the pet owner’s responsibility to ensure the recommended two vaccines required are given within the recommended timescale to get full immunity.

• The diseases the vaccine protects your dog against are distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis.
• Full payment is required in at the time of the initial vaccination.
• This offer cannot be combined with other offers unless specified here.
• This offer cannot be exchanged for a cash alternative.
• Rabies vaccinations are not included.
• Canine/Kennel cough vaccinations are not included.

Appropriate vaccination of your Family Pet is an essential element of preventative healthcare for your pet dog,cat or rabbit.

Since the development of vaccinations  against diseases such as Parvo, leptospirosis and distemper , we have seen an ever increasing uptake in the use of these vaccines and consequently a dramatic reduction in the number of these nasty diseases that we see.

But unless your pet is correctly vaccinated when young and booster vaccinated yearly there is an increased chance of contracting one of these diseases.

These diseases can often be life threatening, with high mortality rates. If diagnosed, treatment is often intensive and consequently expensive, and in some circumstances there may not be a favourable outcome.

That’s why at Family Vets we strongly advise vaccinating your pet against these preventable diseases and availing of yearly booster vaccinations as immunity from primary vaccination fades over time. Yearly booster vaccination appointments are also an excellent time to have full health check on your pet as a full clinical exam is always carried out at this time.

For more information on everything do with your pet’s vaccinations please visit our website https://familyvets.ie/vaccinations/

Please call us at 0906492623 if you have any queries or click https://familyvets.ie/booking/#appointment-type to book an appointment