Hot Weather Pet Safety Tips: Keep Your Dog & Cat Cool This Summer

Published on: Jul 23, 2015

Fantastic news, the summer has started and we’ve even had a series of consecutive sunny and hot days.  In fact it’s been so hot that many of us have even complained of it being uncomfortable and not pleasant.  And  if we find it like this then our furred friends can certainly experience the same and sometimes, if not appropriately managed, it can cause then life threatening concerns. 

The effects of the sun and hot weather can have a range of complications for our pets, some that have immediate effects and some that can be delayed.  With a little thought however these can be successfully managed.  Below are just a few take home points that are worth remembering this summer: 

• Dogs and cats can only sweat through their paws and dogs also pant as a way of cooling themselves.  This isn’t as effective as in humans and so pets are particularly susceptible to the effects of heat. 
• Dogs and cats can be real sun worshippers, lying out in the sun all day.  Make sure they always have access to shady retreats where they can go to cool off.  Equally if you have rabbits out in a run then remember to make sure it has shaded areas and that they are not contained in an area exposed to the sun all day! 
• Access to cool drinking water helps to keep hydrated and to stay cool.  Make sure they have free access both inside and out and if you are going out for the day with your dog then take a supply with you. 
• Adding ice cubes to your pets water bowls can be both amusing for them and also help to keep them cool. 
• We like to go for quick dip on a hot day and your dog will probably feel very similar.  If it’s really hot and you are planning a walk out then going somewhere where they can have a safe swim could be a great idea. 
• If hot, dogs and cats will seek out shade.  If there is a breeze that can be created by opening doors or windows than that can really help.  Equally shaded ceramic floor tiles often are cool to lie on and sought out by an over hot pet. 
• The message about not leaving pets in cars is hopefully one that has reached us all.  However this doesn’t only apply to cars and other glassed housing such as conservatories can be very similar.  They will probably love the conservatory but again make sure they can get to a cooler area. 
• Avoid exercising your dog during the middle, hotter part of the day. 
• Take extra care with dogs at risk – short-nosed breeds (Pugs, Shih Tzus, Persians etc), older or overweight dogs and those with heart problems. 
• Having a thick coat, i.e. Chow Chows or Huskys etc., will significantly increase the risks of heat stress.  If your dog or cat has a thick coat, consider clipping it during summer months to help them stay cool. 
• Heat stress is unfortunately a common, life-threatening emergency in dogs during warm weather. Early signs include rapid shallow breathing, unsteadiness, dry gums and vomiting. If you are concerned your dog is overheated contact a vet for advice straight away, provide drinking water and wet the coat and paws (with small amounts of tepid not icy, water) 
• Dogs and cats that have exposed skin can burn and long term exposure can lead to skin cancer.  This is particularly associated to the sparsely furred noses and ear tips of pets with white fur in these regions.  Applying sun cream to these regions is advisable and your veterinary practice will be able to advice on this.  

Hopefully considering these bits of advice will ensure no undesirable events occur and both you and your pets can enjoy the summer.  What may be more likely is that next week the weather will turn cold and we will have seen the last of the hot weather.   If it does persist however then stay safe and enjoy the summer with your pet. 

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