Here at The pet Express, we’re always devastated to hear of animals (especially dogs) becoming incredibly ill and even passing away because they’re not given the proper care and attention on hot days. This week’s bumper blog post is all about how you can keep your pets safe, healthy and comfortable over the summer.
- Dogs
It seems a summer doesn’t go by without a news story about dogs dying in hot cars. Did you know that when it’s just 22°C outside, the temperature inside a car can rise to 47°C within just 60 minutes? Even leaving a window rolled down or a sunshield on your windscreen isn’t enough; dogs should never be left alone in a car on a warm day. In fact, if you see a dog left in a car, call the police on 999, as owners have a legal duty to care for their animals under the Animal Welfare Act.
When at home, ensure that your dog always has access to a cool, shady spot or a well-ventilated room as well as plenty of fresh drinking water in a heavy bowl that can’t be knocked over. Also, don’t leave your dog in a conservatory, as these are prone to getting exceedingly hot just like cars.
If your dog has long hair, be sure to brush them regularly and give them a haircut at the beginning of the summer. Regular baths will help with skin irritation caused by the heat, as well as helping your dog to cool off. Just be sure to use cool water, not cold.
When out and about, ensure that you have water with you and give your dog small amounts throughout the day. Dogs still need exercise when it’s warm, so avoid the hottest parts of the day and take them for a walk in the early morning or evening. Finally, be aware that dogs can get sunburned too, especially on light-coloured noses and ears. Your vet can advise you about suitable sun creams.
- Cats
Much like dogs, cats need to have somewhere shady, cool and ventilated to move to when they get too hot. It is also recommended that cats are kept indoors during the middle of the day, when temperatures are at their highest. If this isn’t possible, then a cat kennel or covered area outdoors will suffice.
Cats also need access to fresh water at all times. If they are to be kept outside, ensure that the water is kept in a heavy bowl, or one with an ‘unspillable’ design. Keep the bowl in the covered area to stop the water evaporating, and check it regularly to refill it.
Cats with light fur are also susceptible to sunburn on their ears and noses, just like dogs. Again, speak to your vet for advice on the best pet-safe sun cream to use. If your cat has particularly long fur, be sure to brush them regularly and give them a haircut if needed.
- Caged Animals, Birds, Reptiles & Fish
The biggest danger with any pet kept in a tank, vivarium, aquarium, hutch or cage is that they’re limited to where they can move to in order to escape the sun. Take the time to move your animal’s enclosure to somewhere that is out of direct sunlight, cool and well ventilated. If the hutch has an attached run, make sure that there is a cooler, shady area available at all times throughout the day.
Regularly check your animal’s enclosure to ensure that they always have plenty of fresh drinking water available. It may also be worth investing in an extra water bowl or bottle, depending on how often you may be able to check these.
In the case of fish and aquariums, their water needs to be kept clean, well oxygenated and algae free. If your aquarium or tank has a filter, check to make sure that this is working at all times.
As with dogs and cats, long-haired rabbits and guinea pigs will need regular brushing, and possibly a haircut to keep them cool.
- Heatstroke
By following all of this advice, you will greatly reduce the chances of your pet becoming ill over the summer. However, be aware that it could still be possible for your pet to develop heat stroke and that this can be fatal, so it’s very important that you know the signs as well as what to do. Especially susceptible are dogs with short muzzles, long coats, or overweight, old or young dogs.
Symptoms to look out for include: excessive panting, heavy salivation, rapid pulse, very red gums or tongue, lethargy (tiredness), lack of co-ordination, being unable to get up after collapsing, vomiting and diarrhoea. Your pet may even lose consciousness in extreme situations.
If you suspect that your pet has heatstroke, quickly move them to a cool and shady area. You need to lower their temperature gradually, so as not to send them in to shock. Do this by spraying or dousing them with cool water, not cold. You could use a shower or a spray bottle, and try to get them near a fan. Let them drink small amounts of cool water, and call your vet immediately. As soon as your pet is cooled down, you will need to take them to your veterinary surgery as they may need further treatment.
The summer is a fantastic time for enjoying the sunshine with your pet, whether it’s in the garden or at the beach or park. These simple, easy-to-follow steps will ensure that you and your pets can make the most of the next few months, while remaining happy, healthy and safe!
For more information, visit the RSPCA’s fantastic FAQ pages, and for all your pet’s summer needs, visit the Pet Express!
