Tips to keep your pet cool when temperatures soar
It’s summer in the UK and temperatures are soaring.
Whether you are a sun-worshipper or shade-seeker spare a thought for your pets and how
they’re coping in the hot weather.
You may need to adjust their normal routine to avoid them getting too hot, or make some changes in the
house to help them stay cool.
As vets, when we see the mercury rising we worry about heatstroke.
Every year we see overheated pets in need of emergency treatment.
Heatstroke can kill, and it can come on without you realising what’s happening.
Do everything you can to avoid your pet getting too hot, but make sure you know what signs to look out for and how to help if your pet overheats.
Heatstroke: Know the Signs
Heavy Panting, Drooling
Heavy panting that does not stop when your pet rests and drooling are the
early signs of heatstroke.
Cool your pet down ASAP.
Confusion, Weakness, Collapse
At this stage pets may lie down and not want to move, seem confused or be falling over.
Cool them down and get veterinary treatment ASAP.
Vomiting, Diarrhoea, Seizures
This is the end stage of heat stroke where pets may have suffered irreversible or fatal damage to their body.
Walk Early, Walk Late, Don’t Walk at all
Get your dog out for his walk early and late in the day when temperatures are cooler.
In extreme heat you may need to skip the walk altogether.
Water Water Water
Make sure your pets’ water bowls are always topped up.
Put extra bowls in the garden for outdoor cats… wildlife will appreciate it too!
Be Cool
There are loads of cool mats and coats you can buy to help keep your pet cool, but you can just as easily use wet towels to do the same job.
Put up a paddling pool or get the hose out to soak your dog… maybe skip this one for the cat!
Stay in the Shade
Wherever possible, keep your pet in the shade.
Walk in the woods rather than on the beach, choose the shady side of the street, draw the curtains.
Freeze that Treat
Fill a kong or licky mat with mashed fruit or your pets favourite treat and stick it in the freezer: it will last longer AND keep your pet cool.
Ice cubes can make great toys for dogs and cats alike.
