Preventative Care@3x

Tips for Keeping Pets Cool During Hot Summer Months

May 27, 2023 | Ask a Vet, For Your Pet, Pet Safety

Thirsty Dog In Hot Day

 

Your Guide to Pet Heat Safety

Summer can be an exciting time for both you and your furry friend, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. With temperatures quickly soaring, keeping pets cool and comfortable is essential. In this blog, we’ll share some tips for pet summer safety, including hydration, grooming, cooling products, and more.

 

Keeping Pets Hydrated In Summer

Keeping pets hydrated in summer is key to their safety and well-being. Like humans, cats and dogs need plenty of fresh, clean water to stay healthy and hydrated, especially when temperatures are high. Make sure your pet always has access to a full bowl of water, and consider adding in some ice cubes to keep it cool and refreshing. You can also offer water-rich foods like watermelon or cucumber as a tasty summer treat. Yum!

 

Cooling Activities

When it comes to keeping pets cool in summer, there are plenty of activities you can enjoy together that don’t require excessive sunshine and sweat!

Water play: If your pet enjoys water, bust out the sprinkler, hose, or kiddie pool in a shaded area to give them a fun place to cool off. 

Go swimming: If your pet’s an avid swimmer, take them to a pet-friendly lake or pool for a refreshing dip!

Freeze treats: Make your own frozen treats by placing low-sodium chicken or beef broth in ice cube trays for your pet to enjoy. 

 

Preventing Heatstroke in Pets

When it comes to practicing pet heat safety and preventing heatstroke in pets, there are a few simple things you can do:

Groom regularly: Regular grooming is essential for your pet’s health and comfort, especially during summer. It can prevent tangles and mats from developing or worsening, which can trap heat close to the skin. Consider scheduling a professional grooming session to eliminate any excess hair and keep your pet looking and feeling their best. A well-groomed coat will keep your pet cool and comfortable. 

Avoid overexertion: Be mindful of how much exercise your pet gets in the summer. Over-exertion can quickly result in heat exhaustion. Try to exercise during the cooler parts of the day and take frequent breaks to allow them to drink water and rest. 

Create shade: Although it’s hot, most pets often still like to roam the yard, so it’s a good idea, in that case, to provide them with a cool place to hang out. If your yard does not have one, create a shaded area for your pet to relax in, like under a tree or canopy. 

Stay indoors: Avoid bringing your pet outside during the hottest part of the day. In Arizona, in the summer, that’s often any time after the sun rises and before it sets. While indoors, make sure they have plenty of water and a cool, air-conditioned place to rest. 

Never leave them in a parked car: Even with the windows cracked or open! On a hot day, the inside of a vehicle can quickly endanger pets, reaching temperatures upwards of 120 degrees Fahrenheit in minutes.

Use cooling products: There are quite a few cooling products for pets that will come in handy during summertime, including cooling pads or mats, vests, and bandanas. These cooling products for pets were designed to help regulate body temperature and prevent heat exhaustion. 

Consider a pet-safe sunscreen: Just like humans, pets can get sunburned too! If you know your pet will be spending any time in the sun, consider using sunscreen specifically formulated to protect their skin. 

 

However, even with every precaution, it’s important to be aware of the signs, as they can develop and escalate quickly into a serious emergency. Signs include:

  • Drooling
  • Heavy panting
  • Lethargy/weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea 
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Red or pale gums
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Collapse or loss of consciousness 

If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, it’s crucial that you seek veterinary care immediately. 

 

Keep these tips for pet summer safety at the top of your mind as the weather continues to heat up. Remember to always supervise your pet during any activities and pay close attention to their behavior for signs of overheating or exhaustion. By following these few simple pet heat safety steps, you can help keep your furry friends safe and comfortable, beat the heat, and enjoy the season together. 

Disclaimer: Not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.