Summer Pet Care Tips
Keeping Your Pets Cool and Safe!
As temperatures rise, our furry friends need a little extra care to stay cool, comfortable, and healthy. Summer can be a fun time for pets, but the heat can also pose risks if we’re not mindful of their needs. Whether you have dogs, cats, or small animals, here are some essential summer tips to help you and your pets enjoy the season safely.
Hydration is Key
Just like us, pets can easily become dehydrated in the summer heat. Make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water at all times, both indoors and outdoors. If you’re heading out for a walk or adventure, carry a portable water bowl to ensure they can drink regularly. For pets that may be reluctant to drink, try adding ice cubes to their water or offering pet-safe frozen treats!
Avoid the Heat of the Day
During peak heat hours (typically between 10 AM and 4 PM), avoid walking or exercising your dog. The ground can become extremely hot, which can burn their paws. A good test is to place your hand on the pavement - if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog. Early morning or late evening walks are best during summer.
Protect Their Paws
Even with avoiding the hottest part of the day, pavement, sand, and other surfaces can still get warm enough to hurt your pet’s paws. Consider using protective booties for dogs or walking them on grassy or shaded areas. Always check their paw pads after walks to make sure they aren’t cracked or burned.
Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car
It may seem like common sense, but this one can’t be emphasised enough - never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside cars can soar to dangerous levels in just a short time, even with windows cracked. If you’re out running errands, it’s best to leave your pet at home where it’s safe and cool.
Provide Shade and Cooling Options
If your pet spends time outdoors, make sure they have access to plenty of shade and fresh water. You can also invest in cooling mats or create a shady area for them to relax in. Some pets love a cool spray of water or a dip in a pet-friendly pool to help lower their body temperature.
Grooming for Comfort
While it might be tempting to shave down your pet’s fur in the summer, many pets' coats actually help regulate their body temperature. Instead, focus on regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles, which can trap heat.
Watch for Signs of Overheating
Recognise the symptoms of heat exhaustion in pets. Common signs include:
Excessive panting or drooling (for dogs)
Lethargy
Bright red gums
Difficulty breathing
For rabbits, they might stretch out or breathe heavily through their mouth.
Sun Protection for Pets
While we slather on sunscreen and don hats in the summer, our pets need sun protection too. Pets with light-colored fur, thin coats, or areas of exposed skin are especially prone to sunburn and heat damage. Here’s how you can protect them from the sun's harmful rays:
Sunscreen for Pets: Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Regular human sunscreens can contain chemicals that are toxic to pets, so it's important to purchase a product specifically designed for them. Reapply sunscreen every few hours if your pet is spending a long time outdoors.
Shade and Shelter: Always ensure your pet has access to cool, shaded areas when they’re outside. Whether it’s an umbrella, a tree, or a covered porch, provide a place for them to escape the heat. For walks or outdoor playtime, try to avoid the peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest.
Protective Gear: For pets with short or light-colored fur, consider lightweight pet clothing that offers UV protection. Dog-specific sun shirts, for example, are made from breathable fabric that blocks harmful rays while keeping them cool.
Watch for Overheating: Always be mindful of signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, get them to a cool area, offer water, and seek veterinary attention immediately.
Keep an Eye on Parasites
Warm weather can bring an increase in fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Make sure your pets are protected with veterinarian-recommended preventatives. Regularly check pets for ticks after they've been outside, especially if you live in a wooded area.
Offer Frozen Treats
One fun and easy way to help your pets cool off is by offering them frozen treats. Just like humans enjoy ice cream or popsicles, pets can also benefit from a refreshing, frozen snack. Not only do these treats help lower their body temperature, but they also provide mental stimulation!
For Dogs: You can freeze peanut butter, yogurt, or broth into ice cube trays or use specialized dog treat molds. Mixing in some of your dog's favorite fruits, such as blueberries or watermelon, makes it even more exciting. Avoid sugar or salt-heavy foods, as they can upset your dog's stomach.
For Cats: Cats enjoy frozen treats too! You can freeze wet cat food or low-sodium chicken broth. For added variety, place a few cat-safe treats or pieces of fish into the ice cubes. Your cat will love playing with and licking these cool, flavorful creations.
For Rabbits and Other Small Pets: Freeze vegetables like carrots or leafy greens in water. You can also make "veggie pops" by blending their favorite veggies with water and freezing them in small molds or ice trays. Just remember to introduce frozen treats slowly and in moderation, as small pets are sensitive to temperature changes.