My dog, Basil, seems to have a penchant for the overcast skies. He sports a thick, dark woolly coat year-round—a stylish choice for winter. However, during a heatwave? Not so much.
Personally, I thrive in warmer weather. If it gets too hot, I might just set up camp in a kiddie pool! Still, I can’t help but feel sorry for Basil.We’ve had his fur trimmed and ensure his water bowl is always full; we would never leave him in a hot car. But what else should I be aware of during this week’s soaring temperatures? And how do other pets fare? Lizards might be basking in the sun without worry—can rabbits get sunburned too? How do cats keep cool?
“Pets are often more susceptible to heatstroke than we think,” explains Dr. Edwina Gildea, veterinarian and director of veterinary operations at leading animal health institution Zoetis UK. Even if your pet isn’t as furry as mine, they can still suffer more than their human companions when temperatures rise. “They cannot regulate their body temperature like we do,” Dr. Gildea emphasizes; thus providing ample shade, fresh water, and cool resting spots is essential.” If you notice excessive panting or drooling from your pet or signs of lethargy, move them to a cooler area promptly and consult your veterinarian.
Want to keep your pets comfortable during the heatwave? Hear are ten expert tips…
Hydration is Key. Always have fresh water available for your pets; however, it becomes even more crucial during hot spells—don’t forget to bring along extra water bottles on walks!
Chill Out with Ice Treats. Is your dog not drinking enough fluids? “Frozen treats like berry or apple ice cubes make for refreshing snacks,” suggests Dr. Gildea.
A Splash of Fun. Is Fido looking bored outside? Set up a small kiddie pool filled with water! The PDSA charity recommends frozen toys that you can toss into the pool for added fun during playtime.
paw Protection Matters. When taking walks with your dog follow the five-second rule: if you can’t comfortably hold your hand against pavement for five seconds without discomfort—it’s too hot for their paws! Opt for early morning or evening strolls when it’s cooler outside according to The Dogs Trust.< p data - journey - content = ' true ' data - node - id = '12'>< strong > Protect Their Skin.< / strong > the < a href = " https : // secretlabpower.com/pets/ " target = "_ blank " ) ) ) ) ) ( ( ( ( ( RSPCA recommends using pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas such as ears and noses especially if they have light-colored fur which makes them prone to sunburn.< / p >< p ( ) < strong > Cool Down Spots.< / strong > Lay down damp towels where they can rest comfortably but avoid placing wet towels directly on top of them as this could backfire by trapping heat instead.< / p >< p < strong > Keep your Bunny Cool.< / strong > You may also dampen rabbit ears gently with wet fingers on extremely warm days says < a href = " https : // secretlabpower.com/pets/ " target = "_ blank " Blue Cross . Alternatively misting them lightly with cold water helps lower their body temperature effectively .< / p >< p (< span style =" color: #000000 ; font-weight: bold ; "> Water Preferences For Cats . < br /> Cats tend towards running streams rather than still waters according to Blue Cross , so if you’re concerned about hydration offer them drinks straight from faucets instead !
Tame The heat With Care:
While dogs may enjoy being submerged in cool waters (with heads above surface), The Dogs Trust advises against this practice particularly among older dogs or those suffering from health issues instead opt spraying room-temperature mist avoiding faces while ensuring airflow through fans air conditioning etc., place ice wrapped tea towel groin armpits.
Sweat Signs To Watch For:
Keep an eye out signs such as panting drooling vomiting diarrhea disorientation these indicate potential overheating contact vet immediately!