As the weather warms up, that’s the advice from Tamworth vet Stephanie Chaffey.

Some of the biggest risks to pets were overheating, hot surfaces and sunburn.

“Dogs don’t know when to stop running around, so often it’s up to their owners to tell them. [Walk them] in the morning or late in the evening … because they can overheat, but also because they can get burns on their little paws,” Dr Chaffey said.

“It’s important to remember that you should test the ground – and if it’s too hot for your hand, then it’s too hot for their little feet.”

Tummy-tanning or white-furred pets needed skin protection, which could include a rashie, sunglasses or even sunscreen – but not one with zinc oxide, which was toxic, Dr Chaffey said.