South African summers can get seriously hot, and while we can grab an iced drink, switch on the fan or complain about the heat, our pets need a little help from us.
Dogs and cats can become uncomfortable or overheat when temperatures climb, which makes knowing how to keep pets cool in summer an important part of being a pet parent.
The good news? A few small changes around the house and to your pet’s daily routine can make those scorching summer days much more comfortable.
Here are seven simple ways to help your furry family members beat the heat.
1. Keep the water bowls topped up
Hydration is one of the simplest ways to keep pets cool in summer.
Make sure your pet always has access to clean, fresh and cool water. If you have a bigger home or more than one pet, consider placing multiple water bowls around the house and in shaded outdoor areas.
Check and refill them regularly throughout the day. You can even add a few ice cubes to help keep the water cooler for a little longer.
And if you’re heading out with your dog, don’t forget to pack water for them too.
Discover tips to keep your pets cool this summer.
2. Give them a cool place to chill
Sometimes the best summer activity is doing absolutely nothing.
Make sure your pet has somewhere cool and comfortable to escape the heat. Indoors, this could be a well-ventilated room, a spot near a fan or a cooler tiled area.
Cooling mats and damp towels can also give pets somewhere cooler to lie down. A supervised shallow paddling pool can be another option for water-loving dogs.
If your pet spends time outside, make sure there’s plenty of shade available throughout the day. Remember, that perfectly shady spot at 9am might be in full sun by lunchtime.
3. Move walks to cooler times of the day
A midday walk under the South African summer sun? Your dog will probably vote no.
Try to schedule walks and outdoor exercise for the early morning or late evening when both the air and ground are cooler.
You may also need to shorten walks or reduce high-energy activities on particularly hot days.
Your dog doesn’t need to break their personal best every time they leave the house. Sometimes a shorter sniff around the neighbourhood is plenty.
Uncover the signs of heat exhaustion.
4. Check the pavement before you walk
The air temperature isn’t the only thing to think about when you’re trying to keep pets cool in summer.
Pavements, tar and other surfaces exposed to direct sunlight can become extremely hot and may hurt your dog’s paw pads.
Before heading out, place the back of your hand against the pavement for around five seconds. If it feels too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Rather wait until the ground has cooled or choose a cooler walking surface.
Those little toe beans will thank you.
5. Keep up with their grooming
That fluffy coat might look like the last thing your pet needs during summer, but don’t immediately reach for the clippers.
Regular brushing can help remove loose fur and keep your pet’s coat in good condition.
Avoid completely shaving your pet simply because it’s hot. Their coat can provide protection from the sun, and different breeds have different grooming needs.
If you’re unsure what’s best for your dog or cat’s coat during summer, speak to your vet or a professional groomer.
6. Never leave your pet in a parked car
This one is non-negotiable.
Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle on a hot day, even if the windows are cracked or you think you’ll only be gone for a few minutes.
Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise quickly and put your pet at serious risk of overheating and heatstroke.
If your pet can’t safely come inside with you, leave them somewhere cool and comfortable at home instead.
7. Know when your pet is getting too hot
Even when you’re doing everything you can to keep pets cool in summer, it’s important to recognise the signs that they may be overheating.
Signs of heat stress or heatstroke can include:
- Excessive panting
- Heavy drooling
- Lethargy or unusual weakness
- Bright red gums
- Vomiting
If you suspect your pet is overheating, move them to a cooler or shaded area and contact your vet immediately.
You can begin cooling them with cool water while getting veterinary advice, but avoid using ice-cold water.
Heatstroke can be a medical emergency, so don’t wait to see whether your pet simply feels better later.
Keep their summer cool
Summer with your pet should be about sunny naps, early morning walkies and finding the coolest spot in the house before they do.
Keeping fresh water nearby, providing cool places to rest, changing walk times and paying attention to the temperature can all help keep pets cool in summer.
And when it comes to keeping your pet happy throughout the season, the Onepet Store is here to make pet parenting a little easier.
From everyday essentials to food, treats and pet care products, you can stock up on the things your furry family member needs without adding another trip to your summer to-do list.
Shop the Onepet Store and stock up on your pet’s favourites.
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