Even as people are reeling under the sweltering summer heat, the rising mercury level has taken a toll on pets and strays as well.
Even as people are reeling under the sweltering summer heat, the rising mercury level has taken a toll on pets and strays as well. The rise in temperature has increased the cases of dehydration, heat stroke and gastroenteritis among animals.
Doctors say that lack of awareness on part of ‘first-time’ pet owners besides favourable climate for such diseases is the reason for the rush of pets at veterinary clinics in the city.
Veterinarian Narendra Pardeshi who runs small animals clinic in Aundh said that amongst all summer-related problems, maximum cases were of dehydration. “Rising cases of sunstroke are troublesome,” added Pardeshi who warned that such cases could be fatal.
“The trouble has especially started over last 10 days. Besides dehydration, we are also seeing cases of fever and gastroenteritis. People should be careful that their pets do not drink water or eat food from outside source especially in this season. Besides, we are seeing cases of epistaxis (bleeding from nose) due to sudden rise in temperature,” said Pardeshi.
Asked about which animals suffer the most, Pardeshi said that birds are the most affected lot besides other cold-blooded indoor pets like turtles, guinea pigs, hamsters and even dogs like pugs, mastiffs and German Shepherds.
According to the doctors, strays are better armed against weather changes than pets who stay in a more protected environment and hence it is most important for pet owners to take precautions and pick up early signs.
Veterinarian Balasaheb Kalhapure, who practices in Vimannagar, said, “Take your pets out for a walk before sunrise or after sunset in order to avoid the scorching heat.”
Meanwhile, at Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park or Katraj Zoo, authorities admit that dietary changes like adding vitamin supplements and anti-stress foods have already begun.
Deputy superintendent Rajkumar Jadhav of the zoo said that coolers, sprinklers and foggers have been employed to keep the animals cool. “So far we haven’t had any cases of dehydration and we will ensure that it doesn’t happen,” said Jadhav.
Words of caution
Do not take your pets out in the sun.
Change food timing to morning or late evenings.
Diet should consist of more liquids and veggies.
Curd intake in the diet should be increased.
Do not trim hair of pets as it could lead to sunburns.
Add drops of Vit D to water to avoid dehydration.
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