Dogs, cats, and other furry pets become overheated in the summer heat very quickly. Your pets depend on you for their welfare; thus, it is your responsibility to keep them comfortable and cool when the temperature soars.
It’s essential to cool down your furry friend as quickly as possible to avoid any unwanted consequences. Here are two easy methods to keep your furry friend cool.
Method 1: Cool your pet with water
As with humans, water plays a vital role in cooling your pets. Dogs especially love being sprayed and showered, which helps cool them down. Here are a few tips to help you cool your dog with water:.
1. Be active with water games
Playing with your dog using water toys or allowing them to chase a stream of water from a hose is a fun way to keep your pet cool. Water play is fun for dogs, and it’s an excellent way of keeping them active and cool at the same time.
You could also get your pet a paddling pool or place a large basin of water outside for them to splash in.
2. Cool your dog with a fan
A fan is another excellent device for cooling your dog. Placing a fan in your pet’s designated area can help reduce the temperature around your pet. The air circulation from fans helps with the evaporation of moisture, thus cooling them down faster.
You could also use a portable water misting fan for a more effective result.
3. Damp coveries
Cool, damp towels or sheets can also be used to help lower your pet’s temperature. Most pets will naturally try to sit on cool surfaces. By placing a damp cover onto their lying surface, you are providing them with a cooling area.
This method is particularly useful when traveling or on an outdoor event with your pet.
Method 2: Natural methods to keep your furry friend cool
You can try some natural ways to keep your furry friend cool that do not involve water. Here are a few tricks:.
1. Provide shade for your pets
If you have an outdoor animal, make sure that there is adequate shade available where they can cool down. A sheltered area, under a tree or umbrella, works effectively.
Be aware that pets with lighter coats and hairless breeds are more sensitive to the sun and can be burnt more easily. Limiting their time outside when the sun is brightest between 10 am-4 pm is recommended.
2. Avoid hot surfaces
Be mindful of hot surfaces when taking your pet for a walk. Pavements, tarmac, and car surfaces can become very hot and unbearable for furry feet, quickly leading to blistered or burnt paws.
Consider walking on grassy areas or shaded trails and make sure your pet is not walking on hot surfaces.
3. Prepare cool treats for your pet
While you focus on keeping your pet cool, it’s possible to forget that they also need to eat and drink. Keep your pet hydrated with plenty of fresh, cold drinking water available.
You could also prepare easy homemade treats by freezing pet-safe fruits diluted with water, such as raspberries or watermelon slices for a delicious and tasty refreshment.
Conclusion
Keeping your pet cool during the summer months all comes down to a little preparation and care.
Constant vigilance, keeping your pets hydrated, providing cool areas or shelter, protecting them from hot surfaces, and providing fun activities and treats will keep them cool, happy, and healthy in the summer heat.