Top tips for pets to have a cool summer

Following the extreme heatwaves in summer 2022, Blue Cross is advising pet owners to keep pets indoors and let them ‘flop’. Even walking early in the morning or late in the evening will be too hot as temperature’s last year remained over 30C.

Consider investing in cooling mats and fans to keep them cool, placing a bottle of frozen water in front of the fan will help the spread of cooler air. Alternatively, wrap a bottle of frozen water in your pets blanket to keep them cool and make ice cubes containing their favourite treats. Place a cool (not cold) wet towel over dogs to cool them down.

When the weather is warm – not scorching, it is a good idea to avoid walking your dog in the middle of the day. Take them out in the early morning or late evening to avoid them overheating. Also monitor their playtime in the summer heat, dogs might not realise they are overdoing it when they are having a good time!

Pets may like to sunbathe but those with pale ears and noses are prone to developing skin cancer if they spend too long in the sun. Make sure there is plenty of shade if the like spending time in the garden or try a pet friendly sunblock..

Always have plenty of fresh, clean and cool water available for your pet and if taking your dog on a long journey or on holiday make sure they have regular water and regular toilet and fresh air stops.

Sadly, despite warnings by animal welfare charities every year dogs are still left in cars on warm days. Even with windows rolled down, cars effectively act like ovens and within minutes dogs overheat to fatal levels.

Visit www.bluecross.org.uk/summer for more advice on protecting pets in warmer weather.