A HEATWAVE with scorching conditions is reported NOW in these parts of South Africa.
HEATWAVE: SCORCHING CONDITIONS NOW IN THESE PARTS OF SA
The SA Weather Service (SAWS) issued a weather advisory until midnight on Sunday.
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These parts of South Africa are affected by these conditions:
- Ditsobotla / Lichtenburg
- Mahikeng / Mafikeng
- City of Matlosana / Klerksdorp
- Ventersdorp/Tlokwe – Potch / Potchefstroom
- Moqhaka / Moqhaka/Kroonstad
- Metsimaholo / Metsimaholo/Sasolburg
- Ngwathe / Ngwathe/Parys
- Moqhaka / Moqhaka/Kroonstad
- Metsimaholo / Metsimaholo/Sasolburg
The SAWS warned that heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, and the increase risk of veld fires.
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THE WEATHER ADVISORY IS IN PLACE UNTIL MIDNIGHT
“Stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, wear appropriate clothing, seek shade, check vulnerable individuals, never leave children or pets in the vehicles, use cooling measures, stay well-nourished, and stay cool at night.”
‘MAKE SURE YOUR ANIMALS HAVE ACCES TO ENOUGH WATER’
“Avoid prolonged direct exposure to the sun as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade, and stay hydrated. Never leave kids in the car unattended. Make sure your animals have access to enough water.
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‘NEVER LEAVE THE KIDS IN THE CAR UNATTENDED’
It furthermore said it’s important for individuals to take appropriate measures to ensure their safety and to stay informed about any weather alerts.
THE SIGNS OF ANIMAL HEATSTROKE
The SPCA also added that pet owners of short-nosed dog breeds should pay extra attention as this breed does not pant effectively and are more susceptible to heatstroke.
- Signs of animal heatstroke (that requires immediate veterinary treatment):
- Dark red gums
- Excessive or exaggerated panting
- Weakness
- Drooling
- Rapid heartbeat
- Unresponsiveness to surroundings
- Vomiting
“The rule is simple, if a surface is too hot for your barefoot, it’s too hot for your pets,”the SPCA said.
BEFORE YOU REACH FOR THE LEASH READ THESE TIPS
Before you reach for the leash consider these simple tips:
- Check the pavement before your walk. Place your hand or bare foot on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too hot for your skin, then it’s most likely too hot for your pet.
- Walk during cooler times of the day. Avoid taking walks during the hottest time of the day. Instead, opt for walks in the early morning and late evening when the pavement is cooler.
- Keep midday walks short and shady. If you’re taking your pet out during the day, be sure to keep walks short. Choose a route with lots of shade and grass patches.
- Skip the asphalt entirely and choose to walk your dog strictly on grass or hiking trails.
- Consider outfitting your dog’s paws with booties to help keep the heat from burning their tootsies.
- If you have a longer adventure planned, be sure to bring water and take frequent breaks.
How to tell if a pet’s paw pads are burned:
- Pet appears to be in pain and showing signs of discomfort. If your is pet holding up a foot, limping, vocalizing, licking or chewing at the feet or is not wanting to walk.
- Pads are damaged if you notice a change in colour, typically they’ll be darker and will change from pink to red.
- Pet’s paw pads that are burned will be visibly damaged with blisters, ruptured blisters, and redness, and pieces of pads are missing.
First aid for burned paws:
- Bring your dog inside right away, or to a safe cool place. Carry your pet if necessary.
- Flush the foot with cold water or use a cold compress.
- Try not to let your dog lick the injured pad.
- Consult your veterinarian.
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