12/08/2022
How to keep your pets cool in the heat
Pet-safe sun cream, fresh water, damp towels and homemade cat-friendly ice lollies are among the tips for keeping your animals safe in the heat.
With temperatures of 40°C (104F) and above possible in the UK, here is a look at what you can do to help your pets cope with the hot weather.
– Where should pets never be left on a hot day?
The RSPCA says animals should never be left in cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day, even for a short while.
If it is just 22°C (71.6F) outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (116.6F) in these environments, so imagine how hot they would get with the mercury set to climb to 40°C and above.
– How can I make my pets feel more comfortable?
The RSPCA says you can use a pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet’s skin, make sure they have shade, ensure they have constant access to fresh water, put ice cubes in their water bowl and give them damp towels to lie on.
– Should I walk my dog in hot weather?
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home advises against walking your dog in hot weather as dogs are less able to cope than humans in the heat.
They suggest a gentle walk very early or late in the evening, when the temperature has significantly reduced.
– Is there anything I should look out for in my dog?
Yes. You should look out for signs of heatstroke as dogs suffer with heatstroke when they overheat.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home says it is important to know how to avoid it and be aware of the signs as it requires urgent veterinary treatment.
Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, lethargy, confusion or loss of coordination, drooling or foaming at the mouth, vomiting or diarrhoea, shaking or weakness, and seizures.
– Is there anything my dog or cat can eat to cool down?
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home recommend trying frozen pet-friendly recipes like ice lollies.
They say that pet ice lollies are not only a delicious way to help your pet in the heat but a nutritious snack too.
As a treat for your cat, the animal rescue centre suggests freezing the water from a can of tuna along with a few tuna flakes for them to lick.
– Are hot surfaces dangerous for my pet’s paws?
It can be painful for your pet to walk on surfaces that heat up in the sun, and they can even sustain burns in extreme heat.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home say if it feels too hot for you to touch, then chances are your pet is thinking the same.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: ‘As sweltering temperatures continue, it’s more important than ever to spread the message that dogs die in hot cars.
‘Many people think it will be fine just to leave their pets for a short period of time, but not long is too long.
‘Temperatures can soar to dangerous levels so quickly – and that can put dogs in serious danger.
‘If someone sees a dog in distress in a hot car, we urge them to dial 999.
‘It’s really positive to see forces like Nottinghamshire Police, and others across England and Wales, taking action when dogs need their help in these potentially fatal situations.’
