Sunshine, beach vacations, barbecues, and long hours of fun in the open air are what summer is all about. Although people manage the sun and heat with sunscreen and cold beverages, our furry pals don’t always handle the high temperatures quite as well. Pets, particularly cats and dogs, are susceptible to heat stress and dehydration in the warm months, so ensuring their comfort and safety is vital. But don’t worry; there are many ways to keep your pets safe and satisfied even in the sweltering heat. Here are a few tips to keep your pets comfy during the summer.
Keep Them Hydrated
Like humans, pets require a lot of water to stay hydrated, particularly during the summer. Dehydration can cause significant health problems like heatstroke, so you must always ensure your pet can access clean water.
If you’re going outside for a walk or to the park, carry a portable water bowl or a fold-up travel bowl. For cats who don’t like drinking much water, try adding a few ice cubes, tuna juice, or low-sodium broth to their water bowl to get them to drink more. If your pet likes ice cubes, you can freeze water or broth into ice blocks for them to munch on.
Maintain a Cool Environment
If you leave your pets outdoors, ensure they always have access to shade and clean water. Whether it’s a covered doorway, a shady tree, or a doghouse with good ventilation, ensure they have a cool environment to seek refuge from the sun. And whatever you do, don’t leave pets in cars during the summer! Even with the shutters down, temperatures inside a vehicle can increase quickly, putting your pet at a significant risk of heatstroke.
Get a Pet Cooling Vest or Bandana
A pet cooling vest or bandana might be a lifesaver, particularly for our furry friends sensitive to high temperatures. These vests or bandanas are made of fabric that absorbs and holds water to help keep your pet comfy. They can be an excellent accessory for outdoor walks, hikes, or drives, offering an added comfort layer.
Water Play
If your pet likes water, water-based activities are an excellent addition to your summer schedule. Many dogs like to swim, and it’s a good way for them to cool themselves while getting some exercise. If you don’t have access to a beach or pool, consider investing in a small kids’ pool or take them to a dog-friendly river or lake. Also, note that not all pets are natural swimmers, so watch them around water.
Take Short Walks
Dogs love their walks. It’s essential to change their walking schedule during the summer. The road can get extremely hot, and walking on it can hurt your dog’s paws or result in overheating. Go for walks early in the morning or late in the evening when the atmosphere is cooler, and refrain from midday walks when the sun is too intense.
Grooming
Regular grooming is necessary to keep your pet comfortable during the summer. A well-groomed pet has a lower chance of overheating, as its fur doesn’t retain as much heat. Brushing away knots and mats will benefit better airflow, which helps keep bushy cats and dogs cooler.
But make sure not to remove your pet’s fur altogether, specifically for breeds with double coats, such as Huskies or Golden Retrievers. Fur offers an essential coating of protection against heat and sunburn, so you must trim extra fur for comfort without cutting it too short.
Let Them Rest Well
Letting pets get some rest is sometimes the best way to keep them comfortable during the summer. Refrain from extreme physical activity, especially on very hot days, and give them room to nap in a draughty place. Pets who get enough rest are more likely to handle the heat well.
Make a Cool Place Inside the House
Ensure your pet has a cozy spot to relax inside your house on days when the temperature is too high. If you have AC, your pet will love the chilly air! Create a cool and quiet spot with a cozy bed or blanket. If air conditioning isn’t available, use fans or open the windows to keep the area breezy. You can also keep a moist cloth on their bed or floor for them to lie on, as the fading dampness will help regulate their body temp.
Be Aware of Heatstroke Symptoms
Despite all these safety measures, watching your pet for heatstroke symptoms is essential. Pets cannot express when they’re overheating, so monitor for signs such as extreme panting, drooling, exhaustion, and difficulty breathing. If your pet shows any symptoms of distress, move them to a cool place immediately, provide water, and contact your veterinarian for guidance. In severe cases, heatstroke can be fatal, making it essential to act quickly!
Conclusion
Paying attention to the temperature and following a few easy steps can ensure your pet stays refreshed, safe, and happy during the summer. From giving them water to creating cool resting places, your pets will appreciate your concern and care. Ultimately, their comfort and safety are worth every effort, and with some preparation, your pets can have an enjoyable, harmless summer with you!
