As temperatures rise and summer begins to hit its peak, it’s important to keep our furry friends happy and healthy in the hot weather. Our pets look to us to take care of them, and with a few simple tips from animal welfare charity Battersea, we can ensure that they are kept safe and sound.
The first point to consider is that dogs and cats are less able to cope with warm weather than humans. They can easily become overheated when exercising or spending time outside, making it essential to monitor their habits and behavior. Even a warm day can cause pets to become stressed and uncomfortable, so it’s important to keep them cool and hydrated by providing plenty of water options and shady spots. Water is essential for pets all-year-round, especially during the summer months, so make sure you always have a bowl of fresh water available for your pets to drink from.
It’s also important to consider the breed of your pet when thinking about summer care. Popular flat-faced breeds, such as Pugs and French Bulldogs, can suffer from breathing difficulties at temperatures as low as 20C. Pets can also develop heat exhaustion, and in severe cases, heatstroke, putting their health and well-being at risk. That’s why it’s important to follow Battersea’s useful tips to ensure the safety of our furry friends during this warmer weather season.
One of the main tips from Battersea is to care with walks in hot weather. If the weather is warm, it’s recommended to avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, consider taking your pet out for a gentle walk early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures have cooled down. You can also look for alternative ways to keep your pets active and entertained, such as indoor games or hiding toys or treats.
When it comes to keeping your pet cool at home, there are several options. Encouraging pets to stay in shaded areas away from direct sunlight, laying cold damp towels for them to lie on, keeping a garden sprinkler on in shaded areas, and providing access to a paddling pool can all help to lower their body temperature. You can even purchase cooling mats and coats and benefit from frozen pet-friendly recipes for nutritious frozen treats.
It’s also important to protect your pets’ paws from hot surfaces, like sand or pavement, that can cause burns and be painful to step on. Stick to grassy or shaded areas for walks and ensure your pets have access to a cool, shaded area throughout the day. Be mindful of swimming in natural bodies of water, as they may not always be suitable for pets. Instead, opt for shallow and clear water for brief paddles, and always provide fresh, clean water afterward.
Lastly, it’s important to recognize the signs of heatstroke in pets and to act quickly if you notice them. Heatstroke develops when pets can’t reduce their body temperature, and it can be fatal if not treated urgently. Symptoms of heatstroke include heavy panting, lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea, disorientation or confusion, and seizures. If you suspect that your pet has heatstroke, move them immediately to a cool, shaded area, provide cool water, and call your vet right away.
In conclusion, by following these simple tips from Battersea, you can ensure your pets stay happy and healthy in the summer heat. Keep them cool and hydrated, avoid strenuous exercise, provide shaded areas, and monitor their behavior closely for any signs of heatstroke. Stay safe and enjoy the sunny weather with your furry best friend by your side.
