How to Keep Your Pets Cool and Safe During a Heatwave

Summer might mean beach trips and barbecues for us, but for our furry, feathered, and scaly companions, rising temperatures can be dangerous. Here are a few tips to ensure your pets stay chill when the weather heats up.

Hydration Is Key

• Always provide fresh, cool water. Refill bowls frequently and consider adding ice cubes.
• For dogs on the move, carry a portable water bottle with a built-in bowl.
• Cool Shelter & Shade
• Keep pets indoors during peak heat, typically between 11am and 4pm.
• Make sure outdoor animals have access to shade that moves throughout the day.
• Use fans or pet-safe cooling mats inside to lower the temperature.

Exercise Smart

• Walk dogs early morning or late evening to avoid scorching pavement. Check surfaces with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws.
• Opt for shorter walks and offer frequent breaks in the shade. Just like us, animals often feel more lethargic in the heat.
• Remember that walking is not the only way to exercise your pet – playing with them or interactive toys will get rid of any excess energy. 

Grooming & Fur Care

• Regular brushing helps remove excess fur, especially for long-haired breeds.
• Avoid shaving unless recommended by a vet—it can actually make some pets more vulnerable to sunburn.

DIY Cooling Tricks

• Freeze treats (like peanut butter in Kong toys) for dogs.
• Offer cats a damp towel to lounge on.
• Freeze water bottles and wrap them in cloth as a DIY cooling pack for cages or crates.
• For smaller pets like rodents, offer cool or frozen fruit pieces (like cucumber or apple) or freeze bedding-safe items for them to snuggle. 
• Gently mist birds with water or provide a shallow bathing dish.
• For fishy friends, turn off aquarium lights during peak heat—some setups generate heat that raises water temperature.

For more advice, speak to one of Wimborne’s brilliant vets at Lynwood Vets – https://www.lynwoodvets.co.uk/  or Vetsmiths – https://vetsmiths.co.uk/

For all your pet needs, visit Wimborne PET Centre – https://wimborne.info/business/wimborne-pet-centre/   or Fishcove Aquatics – https://fishcove.co.uk/