Temperatures hit a record high in the UK this month, and it’s only going to get warmer as we progress through summer. However, it’s not only us humans who are overheating in the summer sun. Dr Matt Spiegle, a vet on veterinary telemedicine platform Vetster, has warned UK pet owners that they need to pay extra attention to our pet pals who are feeling even hotter than we are this summer and wishing they could hang up their fur coats.
Many of us will feel anxious and worried about our pets in the heat, wishing they could communicate to us how they are feeling and what they need. Luckily, Dr Matt has some crucial tips to ensure our pets remain comfortable and safe this summer:
1. Keep them hydrated
“Just like us, pets need to stay hydrated. Make sure they have access to plenty of fresh, clean water. If your four-legged pal isn’t too keen on drinking, try spicing things up by adding a few drops of water to their wet food or tossing in some ice cubes. Chilled water is like a refreshing slurp for them!”
2. Paws off the pavement
“Pavements can get extremely hot in the sun and could potentially burn your dog’s paws if too hot. When you take your dog for a stroll, avoid hot surfaces and lead them to the cool grass instead. If you want to go the extra mile, consider getting some padded booties for their paws.”
3. Stay vigilant for signs of heatstroke
Heatstroke is no laughing matter, so let’s be on the lookout. Watch out for heavy panting, restlessness, and excessive drooling. Dogs and cats don’t have the luxury of sweating, so panting is their go-to cooling method. If you spot your pet panting more than usual, it’s time to take action – provide plenty of water, shade, and downtime to help them chill out. If you are concerned about your pet, seek medical advice from a professional vet.
4. Absolutely no hot cars!
“You should never, ever leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Studies show that even if the outdoor temperate is 22°C, a car can still rise to 47°C in a short space, so imagine how hot a parked car could get when outdoor temperatures are around 35°C. Even if you’re leaving your car unattended for a minute or think that an leaving a window open will help – it won’t and it can still affect your pet.”