Summer can be hard on pets. After all, they don’t quite have the capabilities of cooling down that humans do. Sweating is fine, but having a full fur coat restricting your skin’s natural ability to breathe can be a problem. Moreover, much of their daily well-being comes from their owners willingness to care for them, and even a day of missed care can be harmful in the heat.
This is why even caring pet owners should be especially careful of their pets during those sweltering temperatures. After all, their little paws can’t control the air conditioning thermostat quite as well as you can. Never fear, because in this guide we hope new and veteran pet owners alone can find a little value in caring for their pets:
Trim Their Coats
Usually, dogs will molt their fur, as anyone who tries to vacuum their house at this time of year will know. But they may require a little extra help, especially around the eyes and tail. Having the coat professionally trimmed and groomed can ensure health, spot any skin conditions underneath, and ensure your pet feels comfortable and calm during the warmer temps. Not all dogs will require full trimming of course, but those that do will benefit.
Limit Exercise
Limiting exercise is important, at least when the temps are incredibly high. Choosing when they should walk is important – perhaps bringing your park walk each morning to be even earlier can help. During the day, limit “winding them up” giving them the zoomies around the house or garden. Learning how to calm a panting dog is a good place to start.
Constant Access To Fresh Water
Constant access to water is essential. Make sure their bowl or feeder is constantly topped up, and that you even have more than one place they can drink from. Every so often, guide them to the bowl, because like humans, they might not drink as they should.
Shaded Areas
Add some shaded areas to your garden. A nice parasol or overhead shelter can help. This way, they can relax and sleep without constant sun exposure. Moreover, makes sure your home is well ventilated.
Be Mindful In Cars
It’s horrible to talk about, but each year a number of pets will perish in hot cars left by their owners. Even a cracked window might not be enough if you’re parked in direct sunlight, although making sure there’s ventilation is the best you can do. If you’re at all concerned about the heat and can’t bring your dog where you may be going, it could just be healthier leaving them at home with fans and AC to enjoy. A hot car can quickly move from uncomfortable to dangerous, and so always be mindful of that.
With this advice, you’ll be certain to help your pet avoid the limits of a hot summer and its scorching temperatures. Of course, this mostly applies to dogs and cats, as we doubt your fish will complain either way.
