PEOPLE are urged to take precautions to prevent their pets from become victims of the hot summer conditions.
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This week, the mercury has soared to well above 30 degrees Celsius and the temperatures are expected to continue to rise as the month wears on.
While people can quite easily take steps to keep themselves cool, their pets don't have the same abilities and it is up to their owners to intervene.
Stewart Street Veterinary Hospital's Dr Jasmin Hunter said people need to make sure their pets have access to cool areas or shade from the sun if they are outdoors.
Animals with white skin or fur, that can't be brought inside need to have appropriate sun protection.
"Any animals that are white-skinned, they are very prone to sunburn, so veterinary sunscreen should be applied," Dr Hunter said.
This sunscreen is available at vet clinics.
They also need cold water to drink. Dr Hunter advised people to put water in multiple bowls in case one gets knocked over.
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Fans can be used for animals, like dogs and cats, if they are inside, but these are not suited to smaller animals as it can make them too cold.
Dr Hunter said "pocket pets", like rabbits and guinea pigs, that can't be brought inside should be kept in the shade and have access to wet towels and ice bricks.
Dogs still need to have exercise over the summer months, but pet owners need to think carefully about the time of day they take them for walks and always be mindful of hot surfaces.
"Be really cautious when walking them or putting them on the back of a hot ute tray as dogs can burn their feet," Dr Hunter said.
On particularly hot days, some breeds of dogs shouldn't be exercised at all as those with "squashed in, short noses" are very prone to heat stroke.
"Even slightly warm temperatures can be an issue if they are outside and they shouldn't be exercised at all," Dr Hunter said.
Pet owners have also been reminded to never leave their animals in a hot car, as even a couple of minutes could be fatal.
Dr Hunter said if anyone spots an animal in a car, they should contact the police immediately and advise a vet clinic of the situation.
If a pet owner suspects their own animal has been affected by the heat, they should hose them down with cool water and contact their vet immediately.
