Anyone who lives in South Africa knows that the summer months can be scorching . You can guarantee that if you are feeling the heat, your pets are feeling it too! Just like us, they can experience some negative side effects from too much exposure to hot temperatures, including dehydration and heatstroke.
Want to make sure that your furry friends are cool and content all season long? Here are eight tips to keep them comfortable.
TIP #1 This should go without saying (and applies all year around) but it’s crucial that your pets always have access to fresh water for drinking. This is the best way to ensure that they stay hydrated and don’t overheat when the weather is hot.
TIP #2 Do your pets spend most of their time outdoors? During the hottest times of the day, typically between 10AM and 2PM, encourage them to come inside instead of lying in the sun – especially if there isn’t any shade for them to relax in.
TIP #3 Some pets – like many cats – steer clear of water. Others, however, especially certain dog breeds, love to wallow in it to cool down. Instead of giving them access to your pool, which could be dangerous, get them a small paddling pool to lie in.
TIP #4 If you are taking your dog for a walk, not only should you go in the morning or late afternoon but you should check the temperature of the pavements and tar that they will be walking on to make sure it isn’t so hot it could burn their paws.
TIP #5 Keep your pets cool and entertained by putting some treats in a bowl, filling it up with water or bone broth and freezing overnight. Then, remove it and place it outside for them to lick at to get to their snacks – it’s like the animal equivalent of an ice lolly!
TIP #6 The inside of our cars heat up quickly and can be significantly hotter than the outside temperature. You shouldn’t leave your pets in your car and, if you do, make sure it’s just for a few short minutes and that there is ventilation and air conditioning.
TIP #7 There are a number of innovative pet products – from jackets to mats – on the market that utilise cooling technology. Alternatively, place some ice packs in your pet’s bed on very hot days or dampen a towel or blanket so it’s cooler for them to lie on.
TIP #8 As a pet owner, it’s important to familiarise yourself with common signs that your pet might be overheating. These include excessive panting, a rapid heart rate, vomiting, seizures and extreme thirst. If this happens, contact your emergency vet immediately.
