With the weather beginning to heat up across the country, keeping pets cool in summer is vital for their health and happiness.
Hot weather in Australia can be brutal on our fur babies, causing dehydration, heat stress or even heat stroke. Common domestic pets like cats and dogs, as well as small animals like guinea pigs and caged birds, are more prone to rising body temperatures. Therefore they need a little extra care in very hot weather.
While thick fur can make dogs feel hotter, pink-skinned pets are more prone to sunburn and skin cancer. You need to take precautions like cool water, plenty of shade and a safe comfortable environment. As summer approaches, find out how to keep your pet happy and healthy on the hottest of days.
1. Fresh Water All Day Long
One of the easiest ways to keep your cats and dogs cool in the summer is to keep them sufficiently hydrated. That approach really goes for any type of pet.
Always make sure your pets have fresh water available throughout the day, particularly during extreme heat. Place multiple water bowls around your home or garden so your pet can grab a drink wherever they are. On very hot days, when the sun can turn cold water warm with very little effort, add a few ice cubes to the water bowl to keep it cooler for longer.
If your pet tends to stay outside, check their water supply frequently to see if it’s been knocked over or dried out. Heavy-duty plastic bowls are a good choice as they won’t heat up in the sun as much as metal ones.
2. Create a Cool, Shady Spot for Your Pet
On hot summer days, make sure you provide your pets with a cool, shady spot to chill out in. Whether your pet prefers to be indoors or outdoors, ensure they can access a well-ventilated, shaded area away from direct sunlight.
Outdoor options might include:
- a shaded corner with tarps
- trees
- a pop-up canopy
When the pets are indoors, keep curtains or blinds closed to reduce the temperature inside and create a comfortable retreat for your pet. Cooling mats, a wet towel or gel beds are also great for providing relief and lowering their body temperature.
As the sun moves throughout the day, check your pet’s spot to make sure it’s still in the shade. Remember shade and airflow can make a big difference in keeping your furry friends cool and happy.
3. Get Air Conditioning for Your Pet
Air conditioning installation is a lifesaver during the hot summer months; not just for you and the family, but for your pets as well.
Maintaining a cool indoor temperature can make a huge difference to your pet’s comfort, as well as its health and well-being. If you haven’t got it already, consider ducted or split system air conditioning installation to help keep your pet cool and prevent heat stress.
Once you’ve got your air conditioning installed, always make sure to keep it in prime condition with regular maintenance. Well-maintained systems offer greater efficiency and reliability and will provide a cool environment on the hottest of days. For pets that struggle with extreme heat like older dogs or thick-coated breeds, air conditioning can be a game changer. One that keeps them suitably relaxed and happy on a hot summer’s day.
4. Wet Towels or Cooling Mats
Using a wet towel or cooling mat is a simple and effective way to cool your pet on hot days.
Put out a wet towel – not waterlogged wet, just damp wet – over a shaded surface for your pet to lie on. You can also gently wipe them down to lower their body temperature. This works well for dogs and larger animals to give them quick relief from the heat.
For smaller pets like guinea pigs or rabbits, you can place a damp towel nearby or create a safe space with a cooling mat or gel bed. These are great for extra comfort, particularly if your pet struggles with the heat. Remember that keeping pets cool in summer helps to keep them comfy and happy, and prevents heat stroke.
5. Limit Outdoor Time During Peak Heat
On very hot days, limiting your pet’s outdoor time during peak heat is crucial to prevent overheating and heat stress.
Keep their walks and outdoor play time to early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler and the pavement is less likely to burn your pet’s paws. The RSPCA suggests trying the 5-second rule for dog walking. Simply put the back of your hand on the hot pavement and aim to leave it there for 5 seconds. If you can’t do it, then your dog won’t either.
High humidity and direct sunlight can be especially dangerous so check the weather forecast. And, of course, a hot car is a pet’s worst enemy, especially if you leave your pet unattended in a parked car.
If your pet loves being outside, create shaded areas or use cooling mats for relief. Avoid strenuous exercise in the heat, especially for dog breeds that overheat like Bulldogs or older dogs. Keep a close eye on your pet for signs of distress and remember a little caution goes a long way in keeping your furry friend safe, happy and cool this summer.
6. Frozen Treats and Ice Packs
Keeping your pet’s water bowl replenished is one thing. However, creating frozen treats and using ice packs is a fun and effective way to cool your pet on a hot day. Consider this idea for starters:
- Fill an ice cream container or heavy-duty plastic mould with water.
- Add your pet’s favourite treats or a few pieces of wet food.
- Pop it in the freezer and give it to them once it’s frozen.
This makes for a tasty and refreshing snack that will keep your pet entertained while cooling them down. For larger pets, wrap a large block of ice or a frozen water bottle in a towel and place it in their resting area.
These cooling solutions work wonders in regulating your pet’s body temperature. Always make sure any frozen items are pet safe and supervise your pet while they enjoy their icy treats to keep them safe and happy on those extremely hot days.
7. Grooming to Keep Pets Cool
Grooming is essential to keep your pets cool and comfortable during the warmer months.
Dogs and cats benefit greatly from brushing out excess fur. It helps their bodies to better regulate temperature and reduces the risk of matting which can trap body heat. Some breeds may need a trim once in a while, but always be careful with that. Shaving them too short can do more harm than good, as some fur layers protect against sunburn and overheating.
If you have a dog with a thick or double coat, they can struggle on hot days, so regular grooming can make a big difference. Even caged birds and small pets like guinea pigs need some grooming care to stay cool. If ever in doubt, contact your vet or a professional groomer to find the best grooming routine for your pet’s needs.
Always Call a Licensed Air Conditioning Technician
Let’s just circle back to the matter of air con installation for a moment.
You might be wondering when is the best time to install a new system (spoiler alert: getting it done in spring will help you avoid the crazy demand that typically comes from homeowners in the middle of summer heat waves). No matter when you bite the bullet and get it done though, you will need a licensed aircon technician to carry out the work.
A licensed and experienced technician is crucial to guarantee that your air conditioning works when you and your pets need it most. They’ll make sure the installation complies with strict codes and standards, and provide it with the essential refrigerant gases that enable it to do its job.
The Importance of Maintenance
Technicians can also perform regular maintenance checks that keep your system running at its best and breakdown-free on the hottest of days. They’ll clean filters, check for any issues and ensure the temperature inside stays cool and consistent. This is especially important if you have pets that are sensitive to heat stress or high humidity.
By taking these precautions you can have peace of mind knowing your air conditioning will keep your furry friends safe and happy even on the hottest of days.
What To Do If Your Pet Experiences Heat Stress
If you’ve tried all these ways of keeping pets cool in summer but yours still suffers from heat stress, here’s what to do:
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded spot to lower their body temperature gradually.
- Provide cool water to drink but avoid ice-cold water, as it can shock their system.
- Place wet towels on their body or gently sponge them with lukewarm water, especially around the neck, paws, and belly.
- Use a fan or air conditioning to create airflow and help them stay cooler.
- Contact your vet immediately if symptoms worsen, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy, as heat stress can quickly turn serious.
Taking these steps promptly can help manage heat stress and ensure your pet stays safe during extreme heat.
Have a Cool Summer with Your Fur Babies
Keeping pets cool in summer doesn’t have to be hard if you take a few necessary precautions.
From providing plenty of fresh water and frozen treats to setting up shaded areas and regular grooming, you can keep your furry companions comfortable even on the hottest of days. Don’t underestimate the power of air conditioning, and remember to call a licensed technician to install your system or have it serviced.
Watch for signs of heat stress and adjust your pet’s routine to beat the heat and you’ll be protecting them from the extreme temperatures of summer. With a little thought, your pets will be happy, healthy and cool all summer long.
Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “Top 7 Tips for Keeping Pets Cool in Summer”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.