Keeping Pets Safe in Hot Weather

Looking after your pets in the summer heat

We all like to get out and enjoy the summer days, but heat can be dangerous for us and particularly our pets if we do not take sensible precautions. What seems ok for us is not necessarily ideal for our pets once temperatures reach 20 degrees centigrade the risk of heat stroke increases.

So, here’s our quick guide on how you can help keep your pet cool:

• Firstly, limit heat exposure – Try to walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower.
• Provide plenty of fresh water – It is vital to keep your pets hydrated by providing cool water and you can try added extra water to meals to encourage hydration.
• Adequate ventilation – When weather is particularly hot you can use fans, open windows, close curtains and create airflow in your home.
• Reduce activity levels – Now is not the time for intense activity, so avoid strenuous play or exercise, as this will increase core body temperature.
• Never leave pets in hot cars – Temperatures inside a car will quickly rise to dangerous levels with fatal consequences.
• Be cautious with outbuildings and stores – Cats particularly enjoy finding small spaces for relaxation. So, check these areas thoroughly, particularly before closing doors.
• Check the location of Hutches – Rabbits and guinea pigs, need to be kept in the shade, so you may need to move hutches to keep them out of direct sunlight.

Check for signs of heat stroke when temperatures are very high.

Look out for

• Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
• Drooling
• Weakness, an unwillingness to move, unsteady gait, collapse
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Red and hot ears (rabbits)

If you suspect heatstroke, act fast: move your pet to a cooler area, wet their body with cool water (not ice-cold), and head to your vet immediately.

Remember, the golden rule is: “Get them wet and get them to the vet.”