Staying Cool
As temperatures rise, it’s important to take extra care to keep your pets cool and safe. Dogs and cats are more sensitive to heat than humans, and overheating can quickly lead to serious health issues like heatstroke. Here are some simple but effective tips to help your furry friends stay comfortable during hot weather.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Hydration is essential. Make sure your pets always have access to clean, cool water. Refill their bowls frequently, and consider placing multiple water stations around the house and garden. You can even add ice cubes to their water to help keep it cool longer. My two dogs love this
Avoid Peak Heat Hours
Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when the pavement is cooler and the sun is less intense. Hot pavement can burn paw pads—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their feet. Focus on some fun training, enrichment and games inside instead!
Create Cool Spaces
Ensure your pets have access to shady areas if they’re outside. Indoors, use fans or air conditioning to keep the temperature down. Cooling mats or damp towels on the floor can give pets a comfortable spot to lie on. Some cats and dogs enjoy chilled gel pads designed specifically for pets. Having a bowl ice water in front of your fan can be a good way to cool down the air that is being blown.
Limit Exercise
On hot days, reduce the intensity and duration of walks and play sessions. Overexertion in the heat can lead to overheating, especially in flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Persians who have a harder time breathing in the heat. Keep training short and sweet with plenty of rest.
Never Leave Pets in Cars
Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a parked car can skyrocket in minutes, putting your pet at extreme risk. Always leave them at home if you’re running errands on a hot day. if you can’t leave them, try to pick the cooler times of day for travel, and prep the car using the air-con before loading and there are covers you can get for cars to reflect the heat and fans if leaving them is not an option
Groom Smart
Brush your pets regularly to remove excess fur, which can trap heat. For some breeds, professional grooming (but not shaving) can help keep them cooler.
By taking a few precautions, you can ensure your pets enjoy the summer safely and comfortably. A little planning goes a long way in protecting your companions from the dangers of heat.
