Helping Your Pet Stay Cool This Summer

When we get hot we can remove a layer – however, our furry friends are less fortunate. Follow these tips to keep your pooch or puss cool this summer.

Summer is here! However, while we have all been longing for scorching summer days, our pets can get hot and bothered quickly.

In fact, all it takes is a matter of minutes for cats and dogs to overheat, which could lead to them needing vet treatment.

To keep your furry friend happy and not too hot this summer, we have out together our top tips:

Watch When You Go Walkies
It might be more convenient to go for a walk after lunch or when picking the kids up from school, but it could be too hot then for our pooches. Instead, pound the streets in the morning or the evening when it is cooler – making for a relaxing start or end to the day too!

Find Them A Shady Spot
Ensure there are shady spots in the garden and encourage your pet to sit in the shade. Let them keep cool under a tree, a table or even a parasol for afternoons enjoying the warmth, without getting too hot.

Make Sure They Are Well-watered
Water is vital for keeping your pet healthy and never more important than in summer. Put out extra bowls, swap dry food for wet and check they are drinking enough.

Keep An Eye On At-risk Breeds
Cats and dogs with snub noses, like Persians, pugs and bulldogs have smaller airways, making it harder for them to release heat when they pant. If you have an at-risk breed, keep a close eye on them, as they are more likely to struggle when it is warm.

Give Them A Good Brush
Not only a bonding activity, and a necessity for furry friends, but brushing detangles matting which can keep heat in. However, do not go crazy with the clippers, speak to your groomer – fur that keeps our pets warm in the winter can keep them cool in the summer.

Never Leave Them In A Car
We have all heard the saying dogs die in hot cars, and many dogs still die each year from being left in hot cars. Even with the window open, temperatures still soar. Leave your four-legged friend at home where they are safe and in the shade!

Visit Your Vet
Should you have any concerns about your furry friend, it is always best to visit your vet. Signs of heat stroke include panting, dehydration, drooling more than usual, no or little urine, red gums and rapid heart beating. If your puss or pooch has any of these signs, take them to your vet for a check-up.

By Shelley Welti