There have been massive heatwaves across the nation; suffice it to say these are typical of South African summers. As a precaution, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has recently posted weather warnings, advising that people in certain parts of the country keep hydrated.
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While the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Northern Province are currently experiencing high temperatures, vets are appealing to pet owners to take care of their animals to avoid heat stroke.
Dehydration is one of the major causes of heat strokes, and animals battling it need to be taken to a medical facility as soon as possible.
Speaking to SABC News, veterinarian Ingrid De Wit said, “Yes, we have cases of dehydration. Dehydration doesn’t usually happen, you know, very quickly. It happens over a few hours. As well as even overheating. Both of those are life-threatening situations and medical emergencies. Sometimes you need to be a bit creative. You can wet a towel, put it in your freezer for a couple of hours, take it out and lay it on the floor for your dog to lay on.”
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