Keeping Your Pets Cool: Essential Summer Pet Care Tips

As the summer sun starts to blaze and temperatures rise, it's not just us humans who feel the heat – our pets feel it too! Just like us, pets need extra care and attention during the warmer months to ensure they stay cool, comfortable, and healthy. Whether you have a playful pup, a curious cat, or any other cherished critter, here are some essential summer pet care tips to keep them safe and happy all season long.

Why Is It So Important to Keep Pets Cool During Summer?

Keeping pets cool is crucial for several reasons, primarily related to their health and well-being:

Prevention of Heatstroke: Pets, especially dogs and cats, are susceptible to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Unlike humans, pets do not sweat all over their bodies; they primarily cool themselves through panting and, in the case of dogs, through limited sweating via their paw pads. This makes it harder for them to regulate their body temperature in hot conditions.
Avoiding Dehydration: High temperatures increase the risk of dehydration. Pets need a consistent supply of water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including kidney failure and other organ damage.
Maintaining Comfort: Just like humans, pets can become uncomfortable and irritable when they are too hot. Keeping them cool ensures they remain comfortable and happy.
Reducing the Risk of Burns: Hot surfaces, such as asphalt or sand, can burn your pet's paws. Ensuring your pet stays in cooler areas or protecting their paws when walking on hot surfaces is important to avoid burns and blisters.
Preventing Exacerbation of Health Issues: Pets with certain health conditions, such as respiratory problems or heart disease, are more vulnerable to the effects of heat. Keeping these pets cool is particularly important to prevent exacerbation of their conditions.
Avoiding Heat-Induced Behavioral Changes: Overheating can lead to changes in behavior, such as increased aggression or lethargy. Ensuring your pet stays cool helps maintain their normal behavior.
Protecting Against Skin Problems: Excessive heat and sweating, especially in breeds with skin folds, can lead to skin problems such as infections or irritations.

How To Keep Your Pets Cool

To keep pets cool, ensure they have access to shade and fresh water, avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day, use cooling mats or vests, and never leave them in a parked car. Regular grooming can also help, as it removes excess fur that can trap heat.

Hydration is Key: One of the most important aspects of summer pet care is ensuring that your furry friend stays hydrated. Just like us, pets can become dehydrated quickly in hot weather. Always make sure they have access to fresh, clean water, both indoors and outdoors. Consider placing multiple water bowls around the house and refill them regularly, especially if you're spending time outdoors with your pet.

Beco Printed Bamboo Water Bowl £5.99 and Henry Wag Pet Travel Bowl £7.79

Limit Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat: While it's tempting to take your dog for a long walk or play fetch in the park during the summer months, it's crucial to be mindful of the heat. Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, opt for early morning or evening walks when temperatures are cooler. If you do venture out during the day, stick to shaded areas and bring plenty of water for both you and your pet.

Protect Their Paws: Hot pavement and sand can quickly burn your pet's sensitive paw pads. Before heading out for a walk, test the pavement with your hand – if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your pet. Consider investing in protective booties for your dog or stick to grassy areas when possible. After walks, check your pet's paws for any signs of irritation or burns, and apply a pet-safe paw balm to soothe and protect their pads.

Animology Dog Care Paws & Nose Moisturising Balm £7.99

Provide Shade and Shelter: Whether your pet spends most of their time indoors or outdoors, it's essential to provide them with adequate shade and shelter from the sun. Make sure outdoor pets have access to a shady spot where they can escape the heat, such as under a tree or a covered patio. If your pet spends time indoors, keep curtains or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun's rays.

Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars: This cannot be emphasized enough – never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, even for a short period. On a hot day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket to dangerous levels within minutes, even with the windows cracked open. This can quickly lead to heatstroke and even death. If you need to run errands, leave your pet at home where they'll be safe and comfortable.

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke: Know the signs of heatstroke in pets, which can include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and collapse. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cooler area immediately, offer them water to drink (but don't force it), and wet their fur with cool water. Then, contact your veterinarian right away for further instructions and treatment.

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it's important to remember that our pets need extra care and attention to stay safe and healthy during the warmer months. By following these essential summer pet care tips, you can ensure that your furry friends enjoy the season to the fullest while staying cool and comfortable. So, grab your sunscreen, a water bottle, and your pet's favorite toy, and get ready for a summer filled with unforgettable memories with your beloved companion.