Summer Pet Care Advice

When things hot up this summer, you will need to take extra care of your pets to keep them happy and stop them overheating and suffering from heatstroke. Here are our top Summer Pet Care Tips!

We all love the summer and the fantastic weather it brings. Our pets tend to enjoy the nice weather too, but it is very easy for them to suffer in the hot temperatures. To keep your pet cool this summer and reduce the likelihood of endangering them simply follow our basic advice.

Pets in cars on a hot day

Whilst a car might feel nice and cool when you are driving along with the air conditioning blasting out, once you have parked and popped to the shops the situation will change very quickly.

If it's 22 degrees Celsius outside, a car can reach a staggering 47 degrees in only 60 minutes. This is unbearably hot, especially for pets like dogs who can only cool themselves down slightly by panting. Opening the windows slightly or using a windscreen shield won't make much difference. Pets can die in hot cars much more quickly than you think.

Thirsty!

Just like we do, you pet will naturally need more water during the hotter weather of the summer. Ensure your pet always has access to fresh water - which should be the case not just during the summer.

Watch out for chemicals

People like to fertilize their land or gardens during the summer. Chemicals for plant life are often toxic to animals. Just think about this if you take your dog for a walk, or your cat tends to spend a lot of time in the garden next door.

Your pet will still need exercise

Even though the summer weather may bring higher temperatures, it's no excuse to stop your pet from exercising. If you have a dog, they should still get the exercise they need. A good tip is to take your dog for a walk in the morning or evening when the temperature is more bearable for you both.

Provide shade

Temperatures can reach their highest in direct sunlight so don't subject your pet to it. If you have pets in a cage outside, re-position it so it doesn't face the sun. If you really do have to leave a dog in a car on a hot day for a short while, park in a shady area. The same goes for indoor animals - if you have a cage full of gerbils near a window, move it out of the sunlight.

Health hazards

Remember the knock-on effects that the hot weather can have on your pets home, accessories and food. If you pet's food is subjected to high temperature and sunlight it's likely to rot and become a magnet for flies and bugs.

It's vitally important to take extra care of your pets during the summer months. The hot weather can lead to health problems and can have fatal consequences. By taking the right steps, you can help your pet enjoy the sun and warm weather with you!