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Despite your best efforts, your pet may still be at risk this summer.

Keep your pet safe this summer

Never leave your pet in a parked car

On a warm day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels, causing organ damage, and even death.

Use pet-friendly sunscreen

Skin cancer is common in dogs and cats.

Even though fur provides some protection from the sun, you should apply a pet sunscreen every 3 to 4 hours to the least hair-covered spots: noses and bellies on dogs (especially ones who like to lie on their backs) and ears on cats.

Try to keep your pet out of the sun during the middle part of the day where possible.

Do not use human sunscreen – it is toxic to pets.

Register your dog on the NZ Companion Animal Register and with your vet.

Provide shade and water

Any time your pet is outside, make sure they have protection from heat and sun and plenty of fresh, cold water.

Tree shade and tarpaulins are ideal because they don’t obstruct air flow.

Good to know: Southern Cross PetCare policies cover $25 each policy year for annual vaccinations or vet check ups.

Watch out for grass seeds

Foxtail grasses can embed in eyes, ears, noses, paws and skin, often requiring surgical removal. Check your pet thoroughly after being outdoors, especially if they have been in long grass.

Be water-wise

If you’re a boatie, consider having your pet wear a life vest in a bright colour.

Beware of currents and riptides.

If a dog gets in trouble in one of these, whether swimming or caught in a wave while fetching a ball, they can be swept out to sea in minutes. The same goes for rivers.

Limit exercise on hot days

Exercise your dog in early morning or evening hours.

Footpaths and roads get very hot and can burn your pet’s paws, so walk dogs on the grass.

Always carry water with you to keep your dog from dehydrating.

Your dog should always have access to clean drinking water.

Have a pet safe BBQ

Don’t share your BBQ food. Your scraps and fatty leftovers can cause pancreatitis, which may lead to severe abdominal pain or death.

Corn on the cob and peach pits are also a big no-no because they can lodge in a dog’s intestines.

Be aware Christmas and holiday treats like chocolate and fruit mince pies are toxic to pets.

Your dog should always have access to clean drinking water.
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Always consult your vet on the best way to look after your furry friend. And to avoid unexpected costs, make sure your pet is insured.
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