How to cool your pet in the summer

Summer is a wonderful time of year, but it can also be a challenging time for our beloved pets. They have a harder time handling the heat than humans, as they naturally have fewer ways to cool down, and excessive heat can be very dangerous for them. Therefore, it is essential to properly cool your four-legged friend if it is hot outside and extremely stuffy indoors.

Cooling your pet in hot weather

Here are 5 key steps to help your beloved friend stay cool even in the hottest of heat.

1. Use cooling agents

For quick cooling, wet towels, a cooling wipe, and a short shower are perfect. For long-haired dogs or rabbits, you can wet their backs with lukewarm water, avoiding the muzzle and ear area. There are also special cooling pads , vests, or cooled toys that help maintain optimal body temperature. For parrots, you can spray mist or let them drink in a bowl - this is not only cooling and useful, but also a very pleasant pastime.

2. Ensure constant access to clean, cool water

Water is vital for your pet's well-being, and during the hot season, its need increases several times. Make sure that the water bowl is always full of clean and cool water. If your four-legged friend spends the day outside, place several dishes in different places, in the shade. Travel bowls and drinking bottles will be great for trips and trips. Also, a very popular solution on hot days is a water fountain, which encourages the animal to drink water more often. Don't forget - the more water, the better.

3. Plan your walks responsibly

It is very important for dog owners to remember that heat and hot asphalt can damage their pet's paws. So avoid walks at noon or in the afternoon, when the sun is strongest. On such days, the recommended time to go outside is early in the morning or late in the evening.

4. Provide a shady spot for your pet

Even if your pet lives in an apartment, they still need a place to cool off on hot days. Cooling pads can be a great solution on such days. If your pet is kept outdoors, make sure they have shade – from a tree, a roof, or a special kennel with ventilation. Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to overheating and do more harm than good.

5. Avoid leaving your pet in the car

Even a car left in the sun for just a few minutes can become a real greenhouse. Therefore, you should not leave your pet in the car. If you cannot take your pet with you, it is better to leave it at home.

How to recognize overheating in a pet?

If you notice that your pet is panting heavily, vomiting, fainting, or shivering on a hot day, these may be the main signs of overheating. In this case, it is necessary to move the pet to a cool place, moisten the fur with lukewarm water, and immediately contact the veterinarian. Do not delay, as overheating can be life-threatening for your pet.

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