Chill Out – Keeping Pets Cool

CHILL OUT – KEEPING PETS COOL

As Summer packs a punch with a wave of unbearable heat, pets can be at risk of heat-stress and heatstroke. Nadia Crighton, from Pet Insurance Australia investigates simple solutions to keeping pets cool. PLUS: heatstroke symptoms.

Australian summers are far from forgiving when it comes to the impact of the blistering sun. For our beloved pets, this can be a very uncomfortable time of year, particularly for the young, very old, overweight, and super energetic.  Brachycephalic dog breeds are also at risk of overheating quickly.

Traditional winter breeds, such as Alaskan Malamutes and Samoyeds, can also become easily susceptible to the endless heat, as too, double-coated cat breeds.

Unlike humans, cats and dogs do not easily regulate their body temperatures. Cats will tend to groom to keep the temperature at bay, while the most efficient way for a dog to cool is to pant (cue the long tongues and drool).

So how can pet-parents keep their pet as comfortable as possible during these hot summer days?

Keeping Pets Cool

Keeping pets cool doesn’t need to cost the earth. With some simple planning and careful consideration, you can keep your pet cool and comfortable without spending-up big at the local pet shop.

• Coats – if you do have a winter dog breed consider clipping their coats just before the onslaught of summer. This will keep them cool and comfortable during the warmer months, while the coat will grow back in time for winter. It’s also important to keep up with the grooming schedule. Removing the dead hair and seasonal shed will also assist your pet with cooling.
  
  
• Shaded Areas – morning shaded areas could be sundrenched come lunch so always check your pet has ample shade for the whole day. Consider hosing down areas under trees to keep the soil nice a cool.
  
  
• Drinking Water – keep drinking water out of the sun and only use plastic or terracotta drinking bowls – stainless steel can heat up very quickly. Having a few good-sized water containers around your pet’s area will encourage your pet to drink. Water fountains are also wonderful for this. They provide cool fresh water while also incising Fido and Fluffy to drink.
  
  
• Cool Play – allow water play for your pet during the day. All water play should be supervised, especially if your pet cannot swim. Specially designed dog pools or children’s plastic clam shells work well. If you are providing water for your pet when you are not at home, ensure it’s well shaded and not deep. Also offer frozen treats – ice-cubes with added treats for cats, and ice-cream containers with added tasty morsels for dogs. A fun way for your pet to cool down while keeping occupied.
  
  
• Access to Cool Areas – allow your pets access to naturally cool areas like bathrooms or kitchen floors. If you are able, bring your pets in during the day and allow them to enjoy the air-con or fans.

• Cool Mats – these are great for older dogs and pets who are really struggling with the heat.

• Exercise – Only exercise your pet during the cooler parts of the day. It’s important to remember that pets can also succumb to heatstroke from humidity, so switch out the massive off-leash run with a swim or some training. A good tip is to also check pavements with the back of your hand. If they are too hot for you, they are too hot for precious paws!

• Cars – never leave your pet inside a car, even on an overcast day or in the shade with the windows down. It’s incredible how quickly your car can turn into an oven even in tepid environments. Pet’s die very quickly in hot cars.

SYMPTOMS OF HEATSTROKE & HEAT STRESS IN PETS

Many vets across Australia will see an increase in heatstroke and smoke related issues over the summer months. It’s important to know the signs and seek professional help quickly if your pet is struggling.

• Pet distress
• Restlessness
• Excessive panting
• Copious volumes of saliva
• Bright red or bluish-purple gums
• Change in breathing

About the author:
Nadia Crighton is an accomplished and well-known Pet Journalist and Spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia. She loves pets and animals of all shapes and sizes including her three cats, one very large Dobermann, a few sheep, handful of chickens, and a goat named Billy.

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