RSPCA ACT ‘Christmas Open Day’ & Summer Tips

Join us for RSPCA ACT’s Christmas Open Day this Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm at our Weston Shelter and boy, is it going to be hot! The weather will be in the 30’s for the next few days so please make sure your pet is prepared for the heat!

Christmas Open Day

We’re opening our doors and hoping the community will enjoy a day with their dogs!

 ·         Adoption Price Lucky Dip: When adopting an adult animal, you can make a gold coin donation to participate in a lucky dip to get a percentage off your adoption price or selected toy from our retail store! Discounts range from 5% - 50% for some lucky attendees!

 ·         Retail Bargains: We’ll have new and second-hand items you can purchase at our retail store. Find some great bargains that your pet will thank you for!

 ·         Christmas Tree Sales: Christmas Trees are still on sale! Buy a fantastic pine tree for just $65 per tree (stand an optional $65 extra). Not only will you have a great tree for your gifts to sit under, but all proceeds go back to animals in need!

 ·         Doggy Reunion: Always wondered what happened to your fur child’s litter or friends? Now’s your chance to find out! Each year will have its allocated timeslot to hopefully meet and reacquaint themselves. Times can be found on our website: www.rspca-act.org.au/Christmas-Open-Day

 ·         Rescue & Community Groups: Oscar’s Law, ARF and Rainbow Paws as well as Northside Community Services and Pets and Positive Ageing.

Summer Tips

Canberra is going to be in the 30’s and we’d like to remind people to care for their pets during the intense heat.

Here are some easy tips to ensure your pet has a safe and happy summer!

1.       Do they have sun protection? Did you know that your pet and experience sunburn and heatstroke? Provide shade and other sun barriers whenever possible to reduce their overall sun exposure. Don’t forget the sunscreen! It’s a good idea to use a non-toxic, hypoallergenic sunscreen formulated specifically for use on pets.

2.       Recognise the signs of heatstroke – This includes but not limited to: excessive panting, weakness, vomiting, lethargy and eventually unconsciousness and death. Please ensure your pet has access to shade and clean water at all times.

3.       Avoid the hottest part of the day – If your pet enjoys a long walk or run, it’s best to save that for early morning or evening when the day (and ground) has had time to cool down. Their paws can actually be burnt from cement if we’re not careful!

4.       So you want to take your pet swimming – Despite what many people may believe, not all animals can swim! For example, some dog breeds actually find it quite difficult such as Bulldogs, Corgis and Greyhounds. If you take your pet to the water, ensure they’re supervised at all times and you may even want to invest in a pet life jacket. That way they can be stylishly cute AND safe.

5.       Ensure its pet-friendly –  Make sure wherever you’re going allows animals. Some beaches and campsites that normally allow them may have different rules during busy periods. Additionally, if you’re going to be on the road for extended periods, try and take the most direct route possible. Also, consider getting a copy of your pet’s medical history in case something unexpected happens. It’s a good idea to visit the vet before taking your pet on holiday. They can do a check-up of the animal's health.

6.       Don’t leave pets in hot cars! It only takes six minutes for an animal to die in a hot car. We cannot stress enough how imperative it is. Additionally, if your pet travels on the back of a ute please do a touch test of the area first to ensure it won’t burn.