For many of us, the hot weather is showing no signs of subsiding. But while it’s definitely welcome for a lot of people, humans and animals alike can be at risk during a heatwave.
You’re probably wondering the best ways to keep a dog cool or how to cool down your cat. Pet-sitting platform TrustedHousesitters has teamed up with expert veterinarian Dr Lily Richards to offer some more advice. This way, we can all have fun in the sun while also reducing the risk of danger.
“During heatwaves, it is of great importance that your pets are summer ready too. Make sure they are up to date with their health checks and vaccinations to ensure they stay safe and can enjoy the sunshine with you,” she says. So, let’s take a look at her top five tips.
1. Keep up with grooming: As Dr Richards says, "Brushing our pets and keeping long-haired breeds’ fur trimmed in the summertime helps them shed their thicker undercoat, ensuring they don't overheat in the sun while enjoying time with the family."
2. Don’t leave pets in the car: Doing so even for just a few minutes can be fatal. According to research in the UK, car interiors can reach 130°F, far beyond what’s safe for animals. If you need to run errands, leave your pets at home with plenty of drinking water available for them.
3. Use pet-friendly sunscreen: It’s not just for humans! Our pets can suffer sunburn, too, and pets with white fur and hairless pets are at the most risk of sun-related cancers. However, says Dr Richards, special sunscreen for dogs and cats is needed.
“Don't be tempted to use human suncream; some of them contain zinc, salicylates, and propylene glycol, which are toxic to pets, and can cause problems if ingested.”
4. Consider switching up your walks: In a heatwave, the asphalt surface on the ground can be painful and burn your dog’s paws. There’s also a risk that they become dehydrated when walking in the heat.
Dr Richards advises walking dogs when it’s cooler, and taking particular care with older, younger, and flat-faced dogs. And remember: if the sidewalk is too hot your bare hand for five seconds, it’s too hot for your pup’s paws and therefore too hot to be walking them.
5. Check for insects: With hot weather often comes insects, like wasps, bees, and other creatures that sting. Yards, balconies, patios, and terraces are often inhabited by insects, but their stings can trigger allergic reactions in our pets. Sweep your outdoor areas for nests and get professionals in to remove them.
Read next: Vet's guide to heatsroke in dogs
