Keeping pets cool during a heatwave isn’t always easy, especially when you want to ensure they get plenty of exercise and fresh air.
Heatwaves can be challenging for everyone, but they can be especially dangerous for pets. As temperatures rise, our furry friends are at a higher risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related issues. Ensuring their comfort and safety during such extreme weather is crucial. Let’s go over some essential tips to help keep your pets cool and safe during a heatwave.
Hydration is Key
Just like humans, pets need plenty of water to stay hydrated. Make sure your pets always have access to fresh, clean water. Consider placing multiple water bowls around the house and in outdoor areas where your pet spends time. Adding ice cubes to their water can also help keep it cool and more appealing.
Create a Cool Environment
Maintaining a cool environment indoors is essential. If you have air conditioning, keep it running to ensure the indoor temperature remains comfortable. If air conditioning isn’t an option, use fans and keep windows and doors closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out the heat. Additionally, draw curtains or blinds to prevent direct sunlight from heating up your home.
Provide Cool Places to Rest
Pets often seek out cool surfaces to lie on when they’re hot. Offer them a cool place to rest, such as a tiled floor or a damp towel. You can also use cooling mats designed specifically for pets, which can provide a refreshing surface for them to lie on. Avoid using ice packs directly on your pet’s skin, as this can cause discomfort and potential harm.
Limit Outdoor Activities
During a heatwave, it’s best to limit your pet’s outdoor activities, especially during peak temperatures. Schedule walks and playtime for early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler. Always walk your pet on grass rather than asphalt, as pavement can become extremely hot and burn their paws.
Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car
It cannot be stressed enough how dangerous it is to leave pets in a parked car. Even with windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, leading to heatstroke or even death. If you need to run errands, leave your pet at home where it’s safe and cool.
Grooming and Coat Care
Regular grooming can help keep your pet cool by removing excess fur that can trap heat. For pets with thick or long coats, consider a summer trim. However, avoid shaving your pet’s coat too short, as fur also provides protection against sunburn. Consult with a professional groomer for the best approach for your pet’s specific breed and coat type.
Use Pet-Safe Sunscreen
Pets can get sunburned, especially those with light-colored fur or exposed skin. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to areas like the nose, ears, and belly if your pet will be spending time outside. Never use sunscreen designed for humans, as it can contain ingredients harmful to pets.
Watch for Signs of Heatstroke
It’s important to recognize the signs of heatstroke in pets, which can include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cooler area immediately, offer water, and contact your veterinarian for emergency care.
Provide Frozen Treats
Frozen treats can be a delightful way to help your pet cool down. You can make homemade pet-friendly popsicles using ingredients like water, unsalted broth, and pet-safe fruits and vegetables. These frozen treats can provide both hydration and a cooling effect. You can also purchase dog-safe ice cream from most grocery stores, but these should be offered sparingly.
Cool Baths and Sprays
A cool bath can help lower your pet’s body temperature. Use lukewarm water rather than cold, as sudden temperature changes can be shocking. If your pet isn’t fond of baths, gently spraying them with water or using a damp cloth to wipe them down can also help keep them cool.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for dog health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.