Keep Your Pets Cool: Summer Heat Safety Tips

It’s only May, but early wildfires and soaring temperatures pose a risk to all animals, humans and our beloved pets.

For instance, my Bernese Mountain dog feels much more comfortable in the snow than in the summer heat.

Because many of our pets depend on us to protect them, we want to share our best suggestions for caring for your furry friends during the summer heat.

As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure their well-being and keep them safe from the potential dangers of overheating. Here are 10 tips to protect your pets and keep them cool and comfortable.

1. Hydration is Key: Just like humans, pets can quickly dehydrate in the scorching heat. Always provide fresh and cool water for your pets, ensuring it is easily accessible to them. Consider placing multiple water bowls in different areas of your home and backyard to ensure they have constant access to hydration.
2. Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid taking your pets out for prolonged periods during the hottest parts of the day, typically from late morning to mid-afternoon. Instead, schedule walks or playtime in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. Remember to walk your pets on shaded routes and avoid hot asphalt, which can burn their sensitive paw pads.
3. Create a Cool Oasis: Designate a cool area inside your home where your pets can retreat during the hottest hours of the day. Provide them with a comfortable bed or mat, and ensure the space is well-ventilated. You can also place a fan or provide access to air conditioning to help regulate the temperature.
4. Never Leave Pets in Cars: It cannot be stressed enough—never leave your pets unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes. On a sunny day, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, reaching dangerous levels within minutes. This can result in heatstroke or even death. Always bring your pets with you or leave them home in a safe and cool environment.
5. Watch for Signs of Overheating: Pets may show signs of distress if they’re too hot. Look out for excessive panting, drooling, difficulty breathing, weakness, or vomiting. If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately move your pet to a cool place, offer water, and contact a veterinarian if necessary.
6. Protect from Sunburn: Believe it or not, pets can get sunburned too! Light-coloured or short-haired animals are particularly susceptible. Apply pet-friendly sunscreen to exposed areas such as the nose, ears, and belly. Additionally, provide shaded areas in your yard where your pets can take refuge from direct sunlight.
7. Mindful Exercise: While regular exercise is essential for your pet’s well-being, adjust the intensity and duration of activities during hot weather. Engage in shorter play sessions and choose cooler surfaces for exercising. Swimming can be a fantastic way to keep them active and refreshed, but always supervise them near water.
8. Grooming and Fur Care: Regular grooming helps pets stay cool by removing excess fur and preventing matting. However, never shave your pets’ fur too short, as it provides protection against sunburn and helps regulate body temperature. Consult a professional groomer for guidance on appropriate summer grooming.
9. Consult a Veterinarian: When in doubt or if you have concerns about your pet’s ability to cope with the heat, consult your veterinarian. They can provide tailored advice based on your pet’s breed,
10. Cool Towels: Lastly, to cool down our dog Maggie in the heat dome a couple of years ago, we soaked towels with water and put them in the freezer for about 10 minutes to cool them down. And then we draped them over her. She loved it.