5 Ways To Keep Your Pets Cool And Safe This Summer

Scorching heat, soaring temperature, and we know the summer is here. During summer we tend to exhaust quickly and dehydrate fast as we are continuously exposed to excessive heat.¹

Summer is the time when we take extra care to remain cool and safe. Our pets too need that extra care during the hot months. The joy will be even more when our pets are happy and safe.

Here are 5 ways to keep your pets cool and safe this summer:

1. Walk Or Exercise Them During Cool Hours

Pets love to walk and it helps them stay fit and healthy. While the habit of walking or exercising shouldn’t change, you can always change the timings.

Take your pet for walking or exercising during early morning or late evening when it is relatively cooler. This way you will keep them away from direct sunlight and prevent rapid dehydration.

Also, if you do need to walk them when the sun is at its peak, walk in shaded areas and avoid concrete surfaces. Take them to a garden and walk on the grass. Avoid walking on freshly mown and chemically treated grass as your pet may be allergic to it.²

2. Keep Them Hydrated

Just like humans the pets too need their share of water. During summer your pet may lose water fast, so check your pet’s water source regularly and refill them if necessary.³

3. Keep Them Indoors In Cool Spaces

What else can be better for pets during summer, than keeping them away from sun? Keep your pet indoor in cool spaces, so, while it’s hot and sunny outside you can play with your pet in the cold environment inside.

You can also provide your pet additional joy by building a small pool for them in the backyard. If that is not possible then place wet towels in a large tub, and watch your pets roll in them!

4. Build Well-Ventilated Shades For Them

Keeping a pet safe and happy during summer doesn’t cost a fortune. Little things like clean and well-ventilated shades will go a long way in protecting your pets.

Ensure that the shade built for the pet is spacious and well-ventilated to keep the place cool and airy.

5. Watch Out For Signs Of Heatstroke

Heatstroke occurs when heat generation exceeds body’s ability to lose heat, and summer is the time when pets are most vulnerable to heatstroke.⁴

Pets who are very young or old, obese or suffer from some disease are more vulnerable to heatstroke.⁵

Look Out For These Signs Of A Heatstroke

• Fever
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Heavy panting
• Difficulty in breathing
• Excessive thirst
• Seizure and unconsciousness
• Lack of coordination
• Deep red or purple tongue

How To Manage A Heatstroke

If your pet shows signs of heatstroke or if you suspect something wrong, it is always advisable to consult a vet. However, you can try the following as emergency first aid:

• Move your pet away from the hot environment and place them in a cooler environment
• Spray some cool water on your pet’s fur and skin
• Do not use any ice or ice-cold water as it may worsen the situation
• Rush to a veterinarian immediately to avoid further problems

Caution

• Do Not Trim Too Much: Grooming is an important part of overall hygiene, however, you should not trim excessively. Your pet’s fur is like an insulation, shielding them from heat.⁶ Consult your vet before getting rid of those excess hair.
• Do Not Go Out In The Afternoon: Avoid taking your pet out in the afternoon. If you need to take the pet out for some reason, make sure they do not walk on tarred roads, sand, and concrete pavement as these get heated up during summers and may harm your pet.
• Do Not Leave Them Unattended: Do not leave your pet unattended in the vehicle even when the air conditioning is on as your vehicle can heat up quickly during summers.⁷
• Contact A Vet Immediately: If you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour or if you feel it needs medical attention, do not hesitate to contact a vet immediately. It will help you save your pet’s life.