Limit dog walks to morning and evening hours, and transportation to night time

Authorities in Slovenia have issued new guidelines aimed at protecting pets during the current heatwave, urging owners to limit walks to early morning and evening hours while avoiding transporting animals during nighttime. The recommendations come as part of broader measures to ensure the health and well-being of domestic animals amid extreme temperatures. The National Food Safety, Veterinary Service, and Plant Protection Agency (UVHVVR) has called on pet owners, breeders, and transporters to take special care of their animals during this period of high temperatures. Key measures include ensuring a sufficient supply of fresh water, keeping animals in shaded areas, and providing them with access to cool, well-ventilated spaces. The agency emphasized that leaving pets in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas, such as parked vehicles, is particularly dangerous and can be life-threatening. High temperatures pose a serious risk to household pets, especially dogs. Owners are being advised not to leave their pets unattended in cars or other confined spaces exposed to direct sunlight. Even brief exposure to such conditions can lead to severe harm or death. In addition, walking dogs on hot asphalt surfaces, which can become dangerously hot during the day, should be avoided to prevent burns or injuries to their paw pads. The UVHVVR specifically highlighted the importance of adjusting walk schedules to cooler parts of the day. It recommended that dog walks be limited to early mornings and evenings when temperatures are lower. This measure aims to reduce the risk of overheating and related health issues among pets. Transporting animals during the night was also discouraged, likely due to concerns over potential stress or discomfort caused by cooler temperatures and reduced activity levels during these hours. Local authorities and animal welfare organizations have echoed these warnings, stressing the need for vigilance and proactive measures to protect pets from the effects of prolonged heat exposure. They have urged pet owners to remain alert to signs of heat-related distress in their animals, such as excessive panting, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, and to seek veterinary assistance immediately if needed. In response to the growing concern over the impact of the heatwave on animals, some communities have begun implementing additional safeguards. These include setting up temporary cooling stations for pets in public parks and increasing awareness campaigns through local media and social networks. Veterinarians have also been advising pet owners on how to recognize and respond to heatstroke symptoms, emphasizing the critical nature of timely intervention. As the heatwave continues, officials are monitoring the situation closely and preparing for further actions if necessary. The UVHVVR has stated that it will continue to provide updated guidance based on weather forecasts and the evolving conditions affecting both humans and animals. Meanwhile, pet owners are encouraged to stay informed and follow the latest recommendations to ensure the safety of their companions during this challenging period.