11/07/2025
With the temperatures rising, our pets rely on their owners to keep them safe and healthy. Remember a few good tips to keep your pets safe and cool!
How do YOU keep your pets safe in the hot summer? Share your tips with us.
Pets As Therapy always put the welfare of PAT Pets first. We advise our PAT Volunteers to cancel and/or reschedule their visits if they are concerned about their pet's health during the hot days.
1. Avoid walks in the heat
Exercise your pet early in the morning or later at night instead.
2. Do the tarmac test
If you can’t hold your hand down on the tarmac for five seconds, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
3. Provide plenty of water
Keep bowls topped up throughout the day and carry water on your walks.
4. Provide plenty of shade
Let your dog rest in a shady area of the house, away from direct sunlight. During a heatwave you may also want to give your pet a damp towel to lie on.
5. Go for a swim
6. Take your paddling pool out
If they enjoy splashing around in the water, let them play in a paddling pool in your garden.
7. Pay extra attention to older dogs
Frail pets are more vulnerable to heatstroke which can kill. Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, lack of coordination or excessive drooling. Contact your vet immediately if you are worried.
8. Use a pet-safe sun cream
Dogs can get sunburn too, so you may want to apply some pet-safe sun cream on the sensitive tips of their ears and nose.
9. Groom your dog regularly
A daily brush will remove loose hair and keep them nice and cool.
10. Never leave a dog unattended in a car
Never leave a dog alone in a car, even if you’ve found a shady parking space and windows are open. Dogs die in hot cars, so don’t take the risk.
