How To Keep Your Pet Cool In The Summer Heat
As the temperature rises during summer, it can be a challenging time for pet owners to keep furry friends cool and comfortable. Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your pets stay safe and cool in the heat:
- Keep them hydrated: Always ensure that your pet has access to fresh and clean water at all times. Consider adding a couple of ice cubes to their water bowl or freezing some peanut or fruit based treats for them to cool down and stay hydrated.
- Provide shade: If your pet spends time outdoors, make sure they have access to shade. This can be provided by a tree or a shaded area created by a canopy or parasol. You can also provide a cool and shaded area inside your home for indoor pets.
- Limit outdoor activities: Avoid taking your pet on walks or any other outdoor activities during the hottest time of the day. Instead, opt for early morning or late evening walks when the temperature is cooler. A good test to check the tarmac temperature for their paws is to see if you can hold your hand on it for seven seconds or more. If you can’t handle it there, they wont be able to either! Use cooling toys such as the Rosewood Chillax Soak Ball for play and extra enrichment for their mind too or even setup a paddling pool in a shady area to cool down in.
- Never leave your pet in a parked car on a hot day: Temperatures inside a parked car rise extremely quickly, even with the windows cracked open. This can cause heatstroke and can be fatal for pets.
- Provide cooling mats: Cooling mats can help regulate your pet’s body temperature and keep them comfortable both at home or out and about. Bernaville have a fantastic range of mats available in store now from only £9.99 in a fun range of colours and prints suitable for any pet.
- Keep them well-groomed: If your pet has long or thick hair, regular grooming can help keep your pet’s coat clean and tangle-free, which can improve air circulation and promote better heat dissipation.
- Pets can get sunburn too! Their ear tips and noses, plus any patchy or thin furred areas will be particularly susceptible, so keep them protected with a pet friendly suncream applied 15 minutes before they go outside.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your pet cool and comfortable during the summer months. Remember to always keep a close eye on your pet and watch for any signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, seek veterinary care immediately.