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Heat Safety Tips For Pets

Published 29th Apr 2022

You may have noticed that this summer has been particularly humid. While the wetter weather can deceive you to think that your pet may not feel as hot, higher humidity means that the warm moisture stays around longer and can make your pet feel hot quicker.

On top of that, our pets don’t sweat the same way as us and therefore can easily overheat during the summer months even if it does not feel that hot. This means it’s important to keep an eye on your pet during the day and practice summer safety.

Here are some heat safety tips to keep in mind this summer:

  • Never leaved your pet in a parked car even if the window is open or the car is under the shade. The temperature inside the car can raise significantly in a short amount of time and shade can easily move.

 

  • It’s harder for pets to cool down when it is humid. So even if it does not feel hot, take care to prevent your pet from overheating when it’s humid. Cool your pet with a damp cool cloth on their body and by wetting key areas (paws, groin, arm pits and neck) with cool water.

 

  • Freeze some of your pet’s favourite treats or toys into an ice block for them to enjoy slowly throughout the day.

 

Kong Kitten Kickeroo Pattern 1 Cat Toy
  • For pets that are kept outside or if you are spending time with your pet outdoors, ensure there is plenty of fresh water, a cooling mat and shade for them to retreat to.

 

  • Sometimes pets can get caught up in the moment when playing outdoors and they don’t know when they are overheating. Give your pets plenty of enforced breaks, water and time to rest between play sessions.

 

Kong Kitten Kickeroo Pattern 1 Cat Toy
  • Avoid going out with your pet during the hottest times of the day. Consider bringing them for a swim and try to limit walks and exercise to the early morning or late evenings. Test the ground with the back of your hand before going for a walk. If it’s too hot for you it’s going to be too hot on your dog’s paws!

 

  • Consider giving your pet a summer groom. While some breeds should not be shaved, their coats can still be trimmed or stripped to help them feel cooler. If you are in doubt on the best summer hairstyle for your pet, consult with your groomer.

 

  • Older, obese or short nosed dogs are likely to feel the heat more so take extra precaution to keep an eye on them and cool them down on hot days.

 

  • Like us, it is possible for our pets to get sun burnt. Pets with short hair, light coloured coat or noses can burn easier. Apply sun protection and avoid going out during the hottest times of the day.

 

Finally, familiarise yourself with the signs of heat stress in pets so you can recognise them immediately. Don’t hesitate to take your dog to the vet if they are suffering from heat stress.

Signs of heat stress include:

  • Excessive panting and drooling
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Increased heart rate
  • Bloody diarrhoea
  • Weak limbs and lack of coordination
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness

PURCHASE ACCEPTANCE

Please Note: "CUSTOMER SELF DECLARATION" By purchasing ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet, you acknowledge and agree that the following is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

  1. I confirm that my pet was examined by a Veterinarian who recommended the use of ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet on the basis of his/her diagnosis.
  2. I have read and understood that whilst my pet is being fed ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet, it is recommended that seek veterinary advice at least every 6 months regarding the usage of ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet.
  3. I have read and understood that I need to seek immediate veterinary advice if my pet's condition deteriorates in any way whilst I use ROYAL CANIN Prescription Diet.

PURCHASE ACCEPTANCE

Please Note: "CUSTOMER SELF DECLARATION" By purchasing Pro Plan Veterinary Diet, you acknowledge and agree that the following is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

  1. I confirm that my pet was examined by a Veterinarian who recommended the use of Pro Plan Veterinary Diet on the basis of his/her diagnosis.
  2. I have read and understood that whilst my pet is being fed Pro Plan Veterinary Diet, it is recommended that seek veterinary advice at least every 6 months regarding the usage of Pro Plan Veterinary Diet.
  3. I have read and understood that I need to seek immediate veterinary advice if my pet's condition deteriorates in any way whilst I use Pro Plan Veterinary Diet.

PURCHASE ACCEPTANCE

Please Note: "CUSTOMER SELF DECLARATION" By purchasing Hill’s Prescription Diet, you acknowledge and agree that the following is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.

  1. I confirm that my pet was examined by a Veterinarian who recommended the use of Hill’s Prescription Diet on the basis of his/her diagnosis.
  2. I have read and understood that whilst my pet is being fed Hill’s Prescription Diet, it is recommended that I seek veterinary advice at least every 6 months regarding the usage of Prescription Diet.
  3. I have read and understood that I need to seek immediate veterinary advice if my pet's condition deteriorates in any way whilst I use Hill’s Prescription Diet