As the summer heat sets in, it’s important to keep our pets cool and comfortable. Whether you’re caring for a dog, cat, or even a guinea pig, it’s important to protect them from rising temperatures. Let’s explore some effective ways to help keep your pet cool in summer so they can enjoy the season as much as you do.
Provide Ample Shade and Proper Ventilation
Whether they’re lounging in the backyard or relaxing indoors, create spaces where they can escape the heat. Ample shade helps protect animals from the direct heat of the sun, while proper ventilation keeps the air around them cooler and more breathable.
Keeping outside pets cool in summer requires thoughtful planning. For outdoor pets like dogs, keep in mind that the sun moves throughout the day, so ensure there’s always shade available. A dog kennel is not a suitable option because it can trap heat and become unbearably hot, which no pet should endure. Consider using:
On particularly hot days or during a heatwave, we recommend keeping your pets indoors in a well-ventilated space. Keep the air circulating with fans or open windows, and always monitor their behaviour to ensure they’re not overheating.
Brachycephalic Dog Breeds
While all dogs rely on panting to regulate their body temperature, brachycephalic breeds or dog breeds with flat faces struggle with this cooling mechanism. These dog breeds are more prone to heatstroke due to their unique physiological traits. Their shortened airways make it harder to cool down effectively, even in moderately warm weather. If you have a pug, boxer, bulldog, or terrier, it’s especially important to monitor them closely during warmer days.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Give your pet access to cool water, especially on hot days when they’re likely to drink more. For pets that roam freely in or outside your house, ensure they have access to more than one water source. Cats and dogs can easily knock over a bowl during play or while panting heavily, so having backup options ensures they stay hydrated.
For dogs that enjoy water, consider setting up a shallow paddling pool in a shaded area. It’s a fun and effective way for them to cool off while keeping their body temperature in check. Just make sure to regularly refresh the water to keep it clean and safe.
Not all cats enjoy the water as dogs do, so instead of trying to bathe them, gently cool them with damp towels. Focus on areas like their paws, ears, and belly to help lower their body temperature.
Encourage Hydration with Frozen Dog Treats
Frozen treats are a creative way to encourage your dog to drink more. Here are two easy-to-make colling dog delights that are perfect for hot days and can double as a fun activity for your dogs.
Simple Frozen Treats: Fill a plastic takeaway container with water, and add treats like Schmacko’s, kibble, or small chunks of wet food. Freeze to have a cool, snackable treat that hydrates and entertains.
Doggy Ice Pops: Get some popsicle moulds, carob drops, and bananas. Mash or blend bananas and then mix in carob drops. Spoon the mixture into popsicle moulds and freeze to make for a delicious and refreshing treat your dog will love!
Give Them Cooling Mats or Wet Towels for Relief
Cats are experts at finding cool spots around the house to escape the summer heat, but they still need your help to stay comfortable. You can create extra cooling options by providing cooling mats for them to lay on.
Cooling mats are a fantastic way to help cats and dogs stay comfortable in the heat. These mats work by absorbing your pet’s body heat as they lay on them, providing instant relief. Place the mat in a shady area to maximise its cooling effect.
For a simple and budget-friendly option, wet towels can also do the trick. Lay damp towels around your home or backyard, giving your pet a cool spot to rest whenever they need it.
Exercise Safely During Cooler Times
Avoid any activity during the heat of the day. Instead, schedule walks or playtime for early mornings before 10 am or late afternoons after 3 pm when temperatures are cooler. Always check for severe heat warnings, as even these times may be unsafe during extreme weather.
Hot surfaces can quickly burn their paw pads, so stick to grassy areas when walking your dog. A good rule of thumb: if you can’t walk barefoot on a surface, it’s too hot for your dog. The same goes for beach trips. Hot sand can be just as uncomfortable for your pet as it is for you.
Travel Safely with Your Pet in Hot Weather
When travelling with your pet, their safety should always come first. Never leave your dog or cat unattended in a car. Just six minutes in a hot vehicle can cause heatstroke and, worse, death. If your dog rides on a ute tray, ensure they’re in a secure, shaded crate with water and matting to protect their paws from the scorching surface.
For longer trips that might be uncomfortable for your pets, consider booking them into an air-conditioned dog and cat boarding facility. These facilities are designed to keep pets comfortable and safe, even during extreme heat.
With climate-controlled environments, plenty of water, and professional care, cat and dog boarding facilities are an excellent option to ensure your furry friend stays cool and stress-free while you’re away. Always visit and research facilities beforehand to find one that best suits your pet’s needs.
Protect Your Pet’s Skin from Sun Damage
Just like us, pets can suffer from sunburn and skin damage, especially those with light or non-pigmented skin. Dogs with smooth or thin coats and white-coloured ears or noses are particularly vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays, as are cats with light pigmentation.
To protect them, keep your pets out of direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day and provide shaded areas where they can retreat. Consider using pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like ears and noses, but avoid human-grade sunscreen, as it can be harmful to animals.
For cats and dogs alike, taking these precautions helps prevent painful burns and reduces the risk of skin cancer. A little extra care goes a long way in keeping your pet’s skin safe under the summer sun.
Maintain Grooming and Bathing Routines
For pets with thick or long coats, regularly brushing your pet’s coat removes loose hair and promotes better air circulation. Trimming their fur can also help regulate their body temperature and reduce the risk of overheating. However, avoid shaving their coat too short, as it provides natural protection from the sun.
Bathing is another excellent way to refresh your pet on hot days. Just make sure to use lukewarm water and pet-safe shampoo to avoid drying out their skin. After a bath, let your pet dry off in a shaded or well-ventilated area.
Monitor Temperature and Signs of Overheating
Always keep an eye out for signs of heatstroke, which include:
In severe cases, pets might vomit, collapse, or display bright red or pale gums. If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a shaded or cool area, offer cool (not cold) water, and use a damp towel to gently lower their body temperature. Avoid using ice or cold water, as this can cause shock. Most importantly, contact your vet immediately for advice or assistance.
By using these practical tips for keeping pets cool in summer, you can ensure your furry friend stays safe, comfortable, and happy even on the hottest days.
