By Brianna Hansen
Summer’s here, and while we reach for iced coffee and the A/C, our pets rely on us to help them stay cool and safe. Whether you’ve got a sunbathing cat or an energetic pup, a little planning goes a long way. Here are a few tips to keep your pets cool this summer.
Hydration helps, but moderation matters. Fresh, cool water should always be available, indoors and out. But if your dog’s been panting hard or just came in from the heat, don’t let them gulp down an entire bowl. Drinking too much water too quickly, especially in large, deep-chested dogs, can lead to a dangerous, and often fatal, condition called bloat (GDV). Offer small amounts at a time and avoid intense play right before or after eating or drinking.
Some pets are more heat-sensitive than others. Dogs with thick fur, young puppies, seniors, and flat-faced breeds such as Frenchies and Boston Terriers are especially vulnerable. Cats aren’t off the hook either; Persians and other flat-faced breeds can struggle in the heat too. Even heat-loving breeds need access to cool, shaded areas and plenty of fresh water.
Watch for signs of heat stress including excessive panting or drooling, abnormal gum color (bright red, blue, or purple instead of pink), vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or confusion. Bloat presents itself in similar ways too, accompanied by (you guessed it!) a bloated stomach. If anything seems off, get your pet to a cooler space and contact a vet immediately.
Paws off the pavement! Hot sidewalks can burn sensitive paws. Do a quick test by placing the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds…if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Aim for early morning or late evening walks and stick to grassy areas when possible. If you have an indoor/outdoor cat, consider keeping them inside during the hottest times of the day.
Create a chill zone. Indoors with fans or A/C is best during extreme heat, but if your pet needs outdoor time, provide shady spots, cooling mats, or even a kiddie pool. Frozen treats made from broth, pumpkin, or pet-safe fruit can add a refreshing touch for both dogs and cats.
Groom wisely, but skip the shave. Brushing helps remove excess fur and supports airflow, but a pet’s coat actually helps regulate body temperature and provides sun protection, so don’t let them go bare!
Finally, never leave your pet in a parked car, not even for a single minute. Heat builds fast and can quickly become deadly.
So, adjust your routine, know your pet’s limits, and let’s keep things chill this summer!
– Look for the this month’s Humane Animal Partners (HAP) sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka featured adoptable pets in the print version of this month’s issue, linked here.
