It is essential to give pets plenty of fresh water during the summertime. Additionally, adding ice cubes to their water bowl can help keep them cool.
1. Water
Water is essential when it comes to keeping pets cool in the summertime. This is especially important if your pup spends a lot of time outdoors as they can quickly become dehydrated if not getting enough liquids to stay hydrated.
Make sure your pup always has access to fresh, cold water throughout the day and that their drinking bowls are always full. Adding ice cubes to their water helps it stay cooler for longer.
If your pet spends time outdoors, try providing them with a shaded area to relax and sleep during the heat of the day. You could also set up a dog pool in your yard or garden so they can cool off and unwind.
Additionally, ensure your pets’ water is changed frequently as they may not enjoy the taste of the same water all day long. Bringing an extra bowl with you on trips or when away from home will help guarantee your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water to drink and stay hydrated.
2. Shade
Keep your pets cool in the summer by providing them with shade. This could include a tree in the backyard, a tarp on the patio, or an awning over a park pavilion.
Dogs in particular require shade to escape the summer sun. Prolonged exposure to intense rays from the sun can cause them to overheat rapidly and suffer from heat stroke or exhaustion.
Dogs are especially prone to heat stroke and exhaustion due to their limited panting capacity, particularly brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs who cannot effectively pant.
Other pets such as guinea pigs, rabbits, and birds also require a cool environment to avoid overheating. Providing them with cooling mats or water in their cage can also keep them comfortable.
Another tip to remember is never to leave your pet in a car during summer. In just minutes, temperatures inside a vehicle can soar dangerously high and cause severe heatstroke or death.
Maintaining your pet’s comfort during car rides is another great way to keep them cool. Place an ice pack or two in their crate for extra cooling as they travel, and make sure the crate has plenty of ventilation to prevent excess humidity.
3. Cooling Mat
Summer heat can be especially taxing on pets, particularly those at risk for overheating such as very young or elderly animals, overweight pets, those with medical conditions, or flat-shaped faces (pugs and Persians). Cooling your pet down before summer arrives makes all the difference between an uncomfortable summer and a potential danger.
One of the most essential ways to keep your pet cool in summertime is by providing them with a cooling mat. These pads come in various shapes and sizes but are mostly composed of a fabric that dissipates body heat by allowing air circulation beneath it.
These mats are lightweight and convenient to fold and store, making them the ideal choice for pets who enjoy traveling or spending time outdoors. They can be placed on sofas, beds, crates, car seats, lawns, and shaded exterior areas where your furry friend likes to relax.
Another popular cooling pad option is a pressure-activated gel that absorbs your pet’s body temperature to reduce it. These mats don’t need water or electricity to operate and can easily be cleaned after each use.
4. Ice Cubes
Pets require a constant supply of cool water throughout the day. Adding ice cubes to their drinking water can help keep it cooler for longer and ensure your furry friend remains well-hydrated on hot summer days.
Another essential tip is to ensure your pet always has access to a large water bowl. On hot days, they may want to drink more fluids than usual so it’s essential to refill their bowl frequently. Additionally, provide several containers in case one gets knocked over.
Some pet parents also freeze stock-flavored water or a mixture of their pets’ favorite treats into ice cubes to encourage their animals to drink more water during hot weather. This can be an effective way to keep them cool while also having some fun.
Keep your pets hydrated during the summer months to prevent heatstroke, which is fatal for dogs and cats alike. Furthermore, taking them on long walks in hot weather poses risks to their health and well-being.
On a hot day, try to steer your pup away from areas that are particularly warm like pavement or concrete surfaces. These can be particularly painful for their paws.
5. Exercise
Maintaining pets cool in summer is essential for their health and well-being. Although they don’t possess sweat glands like human beings do, pets can still become overheated and dehydrated when temperatures become excessively high.
To help your pet stay cool during summertime, ensure they have access to plenty of water. Be sure to refill water bowls frequently during hot weather to make sure your furry friend is getting all of the fluids they need.
Another important factor to consider is exercise. Take your dogs out for walks in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, making sure to bring a water bowl along and dividing the time spent walking into smaller blocks so they don’t overexert themselves on hot days.
When walking your dogs, try to avoid asphalt and concrete surfaces as these can quickly reach dangerously hot temperatures. Alternatively, use heat-resistant dog booties on their paws for extra protection.
When temperatures rise, be sure to keep your dog out of the sun as these pets are more prone to overheating and heat stroke.
Finally, ensure your pets always wear lightweight and comfortable clothing during the summer. Sweaters or other items that trap excess heat inside can be especially damaging.