Western Australia’s summer holidays bring plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the sunshine with our dogs — from beach visits and backyard barbecues to Christmas celebrations and New Year fireworks. But the warm weather and festive activities can also bring extra risks for our canine companions.

Here are some simple, practical tips to help keep your dog safe, comfortable and calm throughout the summer holiday season.

Stay Safe in the Summer Heat

Avoid the hottest part of the day.
Walk or exercise your dog early in the morning or late in the evening. Even short walks in the heat can put dogs at risk of heat exhaustion.

Hydration is essential.
Always have fresh, cool water available — both at home and when out and about.

Watch for signs of heat stress, including:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Bright red gums
• Lethargy or wobbliness
• Vomiting or collapse

If you notice these signs, move your dog to shade, offer cool water, and contact your vet.

Protect paws.
Footpaths, sand and roads can become dangerously hot. If you can't hold your palm on the surface for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Never leave dogs in cars — even for a moment.
Car temperatures rise rapidly and can be fatal within minutes.

If you see a dog in a hot car:

1. Assess the situation— note the car details and check for distress signs.
2. Call for help— dial 000 if in immediate danger, or contact RSPCA WA on 1300 278 358 or RAC WA Roadside Assistance on 13 17 03.
3. Take action if safe and advised— only intervene if authorities approve and it’s safe.
4. Cool the dog safely— move them to shade, offer cool water, gently apply damp towels, and seek veterinary care immediately, even if they seem okay.

Beach and Outdoor Adventure Safety

There’s nothing better than a Perth summer beach day, but always keep the following in mind:

Shade and sun protection.
Bring an umbrella or shade tent. Dogs with light skin, pink noses or thin coats may need pet-safe sunscreen.

Avoid saltwater tummy troubles.
Too much saltwater can cause diarrhoea or vomiting. Offer plenty of fresh water to discourage drinking from the ocean.

Swimming safety.
Not all dogs are strong swimmers. Keep an eye on currents and rips, and consider a dog life jacket for small, older or nervous dogs.

Check for hazards.
Broken shells, fishing hooks, sharp rocks — and washed-up sea life — can cause injuries or poisoning. Be especially careful with blowfish, as they are highly toxic if ingested. Rinse your dog after swimming to remove salt and sand from their coat.

Festive Food Hazards

Holiday gatherings often come with tempting treats, but many foods are dangerous for dogs, including:

• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins (including Christmas cake and pudding)
• Onions and garlic
• Macadamia nuts
• Cooked bones
• Alcohol
• Foods containing xylitol (some lollies, cakes, sugar-free gum)

Rich, fatty foods from barbecues (like sausages, bacon, ham or trimmings) can trigger painful pancreatitis. Remind your guests not to slip treats to the dog under the table!

Decorations, Visitors & Holiday Chaos

Keep decorations out of reach.
Tinsel, baubles, fairy-light cords and wrapped gifts can be irresistible — and dangerous if chewed or swallowed.

Create a quiet, safe zone.
Visitors, noisy gatherings and changes to routine can overwhelm some dogs. Provide a crate, bed or room where they can retreat.

Prevent escapes.
With doors and gates opening frequently over the holidays, ensure fences are secure and always keep ID tags and microchip details up to date.

New Year Fireworks & Noise Sensitivity

Many dogs become distressed during fireworks and parties. To help:

• Keep dogs indoors with curtains drawn.
• Use background noise like TV or music.
• Provide enrichment such as long-lasting chews or puzzle toys.
• Ensure your yard is escape-proof if your dog must be outside.
• Speak to your vet ahead of time if your dog has severe noise anxiety — medication may help.

Travelling With Your Dog

If you’re heading away:

• Never transport dogs loose in the back of a ute unless properly tethered with shade and a mat.
• Use a secure travel crate or harness in the car.
• Pack essentials: water, bowls, medication, leash, waste bags, and bedding.

By planning ahead and being mindful of the unique risks of WA’s summer holiday season, you can ensure your dog stays safe, comfortable and able to enjoy all the fun with the family.