C&G’s Guide to Keeping Your Pets Cool in Summer

 

Heavy rains one minute, scorching heat the next – Melbournians have become pretty apt at handling sporadic weather. But the beloved pets in your home may find it more difficult to deal with the warmer temperatures, so C&G has compiled some top tips for keeping your animals cool in the heat.

Just like humans, our pets’ internal systems have the ability to control their body temperature – most of the time. There are generally two reasons our animals overheat, the first being hyperthermia and the second being a compromised upper respiratory system. When animals are confined to hot environments for long periods of time –  for example cars, houses, gardens or beaches –  their bodies become unable to cool down. Some animals, like bulldogs, have compromised upper airways, which makes cooling down in hot climates even harder. Taking steps to create comfortable environments for our pets reduces their risk of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, and ensures the summer months are as pet-safe as possible. 

Time ‘Walkies’ After Hours

The hours when the sun is strongest are the most uncomfortable for your furry friends. Their added warmth from their coats can make the sun’s rays feel even hotter, so attempting to fit walks in early in the morning or after sunset can reduce the risk of uncomfortable and dangerous temperatures. A good rule of thumb is to place the back of your hand on the pavement – if it’s too hot to hold in there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s little paws. 

Keep Pets Indoors

If you’re going out and tend to leave your animals in the garden while you’re gone, consider how long they may be left alone. Often, the temperatures inside the house are far more comfortable. Dogs and cats may find the most relief from cool surfaces, like laminate or kitchen floor tiles.

Hydration Station

Ensure that fresh, cool water is available to your pets at all times. Heat exhaustion can develop quickly, and they may begin panting and appear distressed. Timed feeders and water bowls can help distribute supplies for pets left unattended for long periods of time, and can ensure that their food and water is regularly replenished at timed intervals. Some animals enjoy licking frozen treats, too.

Brush Away Excess Fur

Shaving or trimming your pet isn’t necessary and won’t dramatically affect their body heat during the summer, but brushing away excess fur can make a difference. As they shed hair, it can collect in their coat and act as unnecessary insulation. Using a brush will give your pet a little pampering, and cool them down in the process. If they don’t mind water contact, using a cool, wet brush can be soothing, too. 

Learn About Your Breeds

Some breeds can carry a predisposition to heat exhaustion. If your pet appears to find the heat particularly distressing, research the breed and see if there are measures you can take to reduce the impact. The RSPCA Victoria has further tips on keeping animals cool in summer, and can provide advice if your pet is exhibiting symptoms that concern you. 

If your appetite for property is heating up faster than the Melbourne property market, the Chisholm & Gamon team is on hand to assist in executing a sale, purchase or leasing this summer.