The summer season presents great challenges for our furry companions due to the high temperatures. It is important to take steps to protect your pets from the heat and ensure their health and well-being during this season. In this article, we’ll tell you 11 practical and effective tips to keep your pets cool and safe during the hottest days.
1. Provide constant access to fresh water:
Make sure they always have access to fresh, clean water. Place several water bowls in different areas of the house so they can easily drink when they need to. There are also water fountains to keep the water constantly moving and prevent bacteria from building up. Another idea for the hottest days are cooling bowls, which keep the water cooler for longer hours.
2. Cooling mats:
Consider investing in a cooling mat for pets. These mats are designed to help keep pets cool on hot days and provide a comfortable place for them to rest. You can place it on the floor or on your pet’s bed for them to lie on when they need to cool down.
3. Provide shaded areas:
Provide shaded areas outdoors where your pets can take shelter from the sun. Install awnings, umbrellas or create shelters with blankets so they can rest comfortably without being directly exposed to the hot sun.
4. Avoid intense exercise in hot weather:
Plan walks and outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid intense exercise during the hottest hours of the day to prevent heat exhaustion and burns that can be caused by hot pavement on your pet’s paw pads.
5. Don’t leave your pets in the car:
Never leave your pets inside a parked car, even for a short period of time. Temperatures inside the vehicle can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even with the windows partially open, which can lead to heat stroke and put your pet’s life at risk.
6. Take care of your pet’s hygiene:
Keep your pet’s coat clean and well groomed during the summer. Clean, brushed fur helps keep the skin cool and allows for better air circulation. Consider trimming the coat of long-haired breeds to help them stay cool. Also, if you have a pet with fair skin or short fur, consider using sunscreen specially formulated for pets on sensitive areas such as the nose, ears and belly, or wearing sun-protective clothing, which helps protect their skin from the sun and prevent sunburn.
7. Use cooling toys:
Help your pets stay cool and entertained with cooling toys designed specifically for summer. You can freeze rubber or cloth toys with water to provide relief while they play.
8. Monitor body temperature:
Learn to take your pet’s body temperature so you can detect early signs of overheating. The normal temperature for dogs and cats is between 37.5°C and 39°C. If your pet’s temperature exceeds 40°C, seek veterinary care immediately.
9. Adequate ventilation:
Make sure your home is well ventilated during the summer to help keep your pets cool. Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and make sure there is sufficient air circulation in all areas where your pet spends time.
10. Water exercise:
Water exercise can be a great way to keep your pets cool. If you have access to a safe pool or dog beach, take your pet for a swim to cool off and exercise at the same time.
11. Visit the vet:
Schedule a vet visit before the start of summer to make sure your pet is in good health and ready to face the heat. Your vet can provide specific recommendations for your pet’s summer care, including advice on diet, exercise and prevention of heat-related illnesses.
Protecting your pets from the summer heat is critical to their health and well-being. By following these practical tips, we can ensure that our pets enjoy the summer season safely and comfortably. Remember to look out for any signs of overheating in your pets, such as excessive panting, lethargy or vomiting, and seek veterinary care if necessary. Having pet health insurance can be a great peace of mind in these situations, offering support in the event of any unforeseen circumstances. Visit our Pet Insurance section for more information.
