Summer means longer days, weekend braais, afternoons by the pool and plenty of time outdoors with your pets.
But while we’re enjoying the warmer weather, our pets can find themselves in some unexpected trouble.
From burnt paws to swallowing something they shouldn’t, certain summer accidents can turn an ordinary day into an expensive trip to the vet.
The good news? Many of these situations can be prevented with a little extra care. Here are some common summer pet hazards worth keeping an eye on.
Discover pet care tips this festive season.
Common summer pet hazards to watch out for
1. Hot pavements and burnt paws
Hot pavements are one of those summer pet hazards that many pet parents don’t think about until it’s too late.
That afternoon walk might seem like a great idea, but have you checked how hot the pavement is?
Tar, concrete and paving can become extremely hot in the summer sun, sometimes hot enough to burn your dog’s paw pads.
These burns can be painful and may require veterinary treatment.
How to prevent it: Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when surfaces are cooler. Check the pavement with the back of your hand before heading out. If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s probably too hot for their paws.
2. Heatstroke and dehydration
Heatstroke is one of the more serious summer pet hazards, especially during South Africa’s hottest months.
Pets don’t cool themselves down the same way humans do, which makes hot summer days particularly risky.
Dogs can develop heatstroke after exercising in high temperatures, spending too long in direct sunlight or being left somewhere without enough ventilation.
Warning signs include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting and difficulty standing.
How to prevent it: Make sure your pet always has access to fresh water, shade and a cool place to rest. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day and never leave your pet in a parked car.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect your pet is overheating, begin cooling them with cool water and seek urgent veterinary assistance.
Being aware of these summer pet hazards can help you recognise potential dangers before they turn into an unexpected trip to the vet.
Discover tips to keep your pets cool this summer.
3. Braai leftovers and swallowed objects
Nothing says South African summer quite like a weekend braai.
Unfortunately, pets don’t always understand that the leftovers aren’t for them.
Cooked bones can splinter, while swallowed mielie cobs can cause intestinal blockages. Fatty leftovers can also trigger digestive problems, including pancreatitis in some dogs.
And we all know there’s usually one dog waiting patiently underneath the table for something to drop.
How to prevent it: Keep braai leftovers, bones and food scraps out of reach. Make sure bins are securely closed and remind guests not to feed your pets from their plates.
Uncover the 6 at home check-ups you can do at home.
4. Swimming pool accidents
Some dogs love swimming, while others would much rather stay on dry land.
But even pets that enjoy the water can get into trouble if they become tired, struggle to find the pool steps or accidentally fall in.
Swimming pool accidents can result in drowning or breathing complications if water enters the lungs.
How to prevent it: Never leave pets unattended around swimming pools. Make sure they know where the steps are and can get out safely. A secure pool barrier is especially important for pets that aren’t confident swimmers.
If your pet has a near-drowning incident, contact your vet immediately, even if they initially seem fine.
5. Garden chemicals and poisoning
Garden chemicals are another of those summer pet hazards that can easily go unnoticed.
Summer often means spending more time in the garden, but some everyday gardening products can be dangerous for curious pets.
Pesticides, fertilisers and certain garden treatments can cause poisoning if swallowed or used incorrectly.
Pets may also come into contact with chemicals while walking across recently treated lawns.
How to prevent it: Store gardening products securely and follow the manufacturer’s pet safety instructions. Keep pets away from treated areas until it’s safe for them to return.
If you suspect your pet has swallowed something toxic, contact your vet immediately. Don’t try to make them vomit unless a veterinary professional tells you to.
6. Escaping during summer storms
Not all summer pet hazards are caused by the heat. Thunderstorms can also put pets at risk.
South African summer thunderstorms can arrive quickly, and the loud thunder can send some pets straight into panic mode.
Frightened dogs may try to escape through gates, jump fences or run into roads.
These situations can lead to injuries that require emergency veterinary care.
How to prevent it: Keep pets safely indoors during storms, check that gates and fences are secure and provide a quiet space where they can settle. Make sure their microchip details and identification tags are up to date in case they escape.
If your pet regularly struggles with storm anxiety, speak to your vet about safe ways to help them cope.
How to prevent summer pet hazards
Nobody wants their pet’s adventures to end in an emergency vet visit.
While not all summer pet hazards can be avoided, a few simple habits can help reduce the risks and keep your pet safe.
- Plan outdoor activities carefully: Avoid walking or exercising your pet during the hottest parts of the day.
- Keep dangerous items out of reach: Secure bins, food scraps, chemicals and anything your pet might try to swallow.
- Make your garden pet-friendly: Check fences, gates, swimming pools and outdoor areas for potential dangers.
- Pay attention to your pet’s behaviour: Unusual panting, vomiting, weakness or sudden changes in behaviour could mean something is wrong.
- Know when to call the vet: If your pet is injured, unwell or showing concerning symptoms, don’t wait to seek professional advice.
A little preparation can go a long way towards preventing an unexpected vet visit.
Keep your pet protected with Oneplan
Even the most careful pet parents can’t prevent every accident.
That’s where Oneplan Pet Insurance can help.
With a range of plans to choose from, Oneplan Pet Insurance can help you manage the costs of qualifying unexpected vet visits, accidents and illnesses, depending on your chosen cover.
So while you focus on keeping your pet happy, healthy and safe this summer, you can have additional financial protection in place for when the unexpected happens.
Give your pet the protection they deserve.
Explore Oneplan Pet Insurance and find a plan that suits your pet’s needs and your budget.
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