With many towns across Australia enduring temperatures of 30+ degrees, keeping your pet cool is a priority! Here are some top PETS tips to keep your animals cool:
Offer shade. When you go to work or school, make sure your pet has an adequate amount of shade. If you leave your cat or dog inside, this is usually easily achieved, however, if you have an outside-pet, make sure there is adequate shade for them all day long. Remember that the sun will move throughout the day; monitor this on the weekend, and provide shade accordingly.
Waterwise. Replace your pet’s water every day wish a fresh, full supply, and keep bowls out of the direct sunlight. PETS also recommends a ceramic or plastic bowl, as opposed to a stainless steel one, as the latter material can heat up.
In the swim. Does your pet like a splash of water to keep cool? Many dogs, horses, birds, and occasionally some cats and small animals, like a small tray or kiddie-pool of water to cool those feet down. This is particularly good for dogs, who sweat through their feet–keeping their little paws cool can help them maintain a cooler body temperature.
Make sure if you do try this one that you always supervise your pet in the water.
Beach time. With Australia being bordered by some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, taking your dog to an off-leash beach can be a great way to cool down. Not only might you encounter a cool coastal breeze, but swimming or walking through the shallows with your four-legged friend is a lovely way to cool down.
And, if you’re looking for some extra water-related fun and you have a strong canine swimmer on your hands–as well as a beach with little to no waves and rip–we’d recommend the KONG aqua toys, including the KONG Wet Wubba. Covered in neoprene (wetsuit material) this toy floats, dries quickly, and will provide hours of fun for you and your pet. For more information, click here.
Exercise. Of course you can still walk your dog and ride your horse in summer; but try and do this at the beginning and end of the day, when the temperature is coolest. If your pet shows any signs of distress or a reluctance to go on, make sure you stop for a rest, and then head for home.
Also, as a side note, it goes without saying that you should never leave your pet in a parked car at any time, especially during the summer months.
Finally, if you ever suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, with signs including panting or trouble breathing, reluctance to move, lack of interest in food/water, wrap it in a wet towel and make sure you take it straight to your local vet.
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