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Keeping Your Pets Cool and Safe During the Summer Heat

Keeping Your Pets Cool and Safe During the Summer Heat

14th Nov 2024

As temperatures rise, it’s crucial to help our furry friends stay cool and comfortable. Like us, pets can overheat and face serious health risks like heatstroke in hot weather. Here are some essential tips to ensure your pet remains happy, healthy, and safe during the summer months.

1. Hydration is Key

Pets need access to fresh, clean water at all times, especially during the summer. Place a large water bowl outside in a shaded area and keep a backup nearby in case of spills. Indoors, ensure there are multiple water stations. When heading out with your pet, carry a portable water container. 

Tip: Adding ice cubes to the water can help keep it cooler longer.

2. Adjust Walk Times

You don’t need to skip walks during summer; just time them wisely. Early morning or late evening walks are ideal to avoid the day’s peak heat, reducing the risk of dehydration, overheating, and paw pad burns.

Tip: Test the pavement's temperature by placing the back of your hand on it for five seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

3. Water Play and Kiddie Pools

Water play is a great way to cool down your pet! A trip to the beach or lake can be fun for dogs who enjoy swimming or splashing in shallow waters. Don’t forget to bring fresh drinking water and pet-safe sunscreen.

Alternatively, set up a kiddie pool in the yard or turn on sprinklers for some refreshing, at-home water play in a shaded area.

Tip: Pets can get sunburned! Apply pet-safe sunscreen to their nose, belly, and ear tips.

Check out our selection of toys perfect for water play:

These toys are designed for fun in the water and will keep your dog entertained all summer long!

4. Regular Grooming for Comfort

Grooming is essential in warmer weather. Non-shedding breeds like Cavoodles benefit from regular clipping, while natural shedders like Border Collies will stay cooler if you brush away loose fur. For personalised advice on managing your pet’s coat, consult a professional groomer.

5. Treat Them with Frozen Goodies

Frozen treats are a delicious way to keep your pet cool. Try making ice cubes with chicken or beef broth, or freeze a stuffed Kong or lickimat to keep them entertained on hot days.

6. Cooling Mats, Vests, and Collars

Cooling mats, collars, and vests are specially designed to help regulate your pet’s temperature. These accessories provide comfort and help keep your pet’s body cool, particularly useful during outdoor activities and walks.

Tip: If you don’t have a cooling mat, place ice packs under your pet’s bed or drape a damp towel over them.

7. Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars

Leaving pets in parked cars, even briefly, can be dangerous, as temperatures inside can rise to deadly levels in minutes. Avoid leaving pets on the back of a ute, too, as the metal can become scorching hot, risking burns and heat exhaustion.

8. Provide Ample Shade and Shelter

Keeping pets indoors during the hottest part of the day is ideal, especially for brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs, who are prone to heat exhaustion. If they are outdoors, ensure they have access to a shaded, well-ventilated area to help them stay cool.

9. Know Your Pet’s Breed Needs

Short-nosed breeds, like Pugs and Bulldogs, can struggle in the heat due to limited panting ability, which makes them prone to overheating. Be extra cautious with these breeds, and ask your vet for additional tips to keep them safe.

10. Recognise Heatstroke Symptoms

Heatstroke can set in quickly and be life-threatening. Watch for these signs:

  • Excessive panting, drooling, or thirst
  • Purple or red tongue/gums
  • Distress or collapse
  • Lack of coordination
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Vomiting

If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet immediately and begin cooling your pet with wet towels and cool water.

By following these tips, you can help your pets stay comfortable and safe during the hot summer months.