Beat the Heat! A guide to Keeping Pets Cool All Summer Long.

With the arrival of the summer, many of us look forward to sunny days, outdoor adventures, and warm weather. But for our furry companions, rising temperatures can be much harder to manage. Dogs and cats respond to heat very differently than people do, which means they rely on us to help keep them safe and cool.

 

Why the Heat is Harder on Pets

Unlike humans, dogs cannot cool themselves effectively by sweating. They can only sweat a small amount through their paw pads and rely mostly on panting to release heat. This makes them particularly vulnerable to heat stress and heatstroke, especially our brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs.

Cats also struggle in high temperatures, though they often self-regulate by seeking out cooler spots. They will naturally seek out tiled floors or shady areas to rest. It’s completely normal for cats to sleep more on hot days as they conserve energy to avoid overheating. Just make sure your home has cool, comfortable spaces available.

 

General Summer Safety Tips

• Provide plenty of fresh water. Place extra bowls around the house, especially if you’re away for the day.
• Ensure adequate shade whenever your pet is outdoors.
• Protect them from sunburn. Pets, especially fair-skinned or light-haired animals, can get sunburnt just like humans. Apply pet-safe sunscreen every 3-4 hours to areas with little or no fur.

 

Exercise Tips for Hot Weather

Although we all love getting out of the house to enjoy the summer days, there is a few things to keep in mind to keep pets safe when outside.

• Exercise during cooler times of day; early mornings or late evenings are best.
• Watch the ground temperature. Hot pavement, asphalt, or beach sand can burn your dog’s paw pads. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for theirs.
• Avoid long or strenuous activities in the heat, as these can quickly lead to heatstroke.

 

Beat the heat by keeping cool!

• Paddling pools for dogs to splash in.
• Ice cubes added to water bowls.
• Doggie ice blocks made with favourite treats frozen in a Kong or ice-cream container.
• Cooling mats placed in bedding areas or crates.
• Damp cloth wipe-downs for cats (if they tolerate it), focusing on paws, bellies, and ears.
• Regular grooming to keep coats thinner and reduce heat retention.

 

Warning Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Contact your vet immediately if you notice:

• Excessive panting
• Restlessness
• Excessive drooling
• Unsteadiness or disorientation
• Abnormal gum or tongue colour
• Collapse

 

Never Leave Pets in Cars

On a warm day, the inside of a car can reach 50°C in under 15 minutes - even with the windows slightly open. This can be fatal. Please never leave your pet unattended in a car. If they do not need to travel with you, it’s safest to leave them at home.

 

Stay Safe This Summer

With a little preparation and awareness, you can ensure your pets enjoy the summer months as much as you do. If you have concerns about your pet’s heat tolerance or want personalised advice, please contact our clinic, we’re here to help keep your furry family members happy and healthy all summer long.