By Esther Lauaki
A Melton veterinarian clinic is urging dog owners to hit “paws” on walking their pets while the summer continues to sizzle.
The clinic issued the warning as temperatures have been hitting the high 30s.
Veterinary nurse Suzanne Arnett said walking dogs when the ground was too hot could cause serious damage.
“We are still seeing people walking and running their dogs in this extreme heat,” she said. “Your dog is at risk of heat stroke, which can lead to death, or your dog is at risk of getting severe burns on their feet.
“Before you take your dog for a walk, feel the footpath with your hand – if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot for your dog.
“If you cannot tolerate the hot footpaths yourself in bare feet, your dog can’t either.”
RSPCA Victoria recommends dogs be walked in early morning or evening coolness.
“It can be a good idea to take your pet to your local beach, creek or river to let them have a paddle and cool down,” the RSPCA recommends.
“This will help your pet avoid possible dehydration, sunburn and potentially painful paws and it will help you and your pet enjoy the walk more.”
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