Cool For The Summer: 5 Ways to Hinder Heat Exhaustion in Pets

Summer is always an excellent season to bask in the sun. But if the temperature rises to unfavorable levels, some health risks arise and cause issues for humans and pets. However, unlike humans, our pets may have the heat worse due to their fur. As pet owners, how do we hinder heat exhaustion in pets? Here are some ideas.

1. Ask for a Summer-Suitable Fur Cut

For pet breeds with longer fur, ask your veterinarian for a summer-appropriate trim for pet breeds with longer hair before the season starts. A shorter coat will help your pet stay more relaxed in the sun. However, if your pet is a bit of an explorer, it would be good to have your pet trimmed regularly to allow heat to exit from their bodies as often as possible throughout the day.

2. Keep Your Pets Indoors

Dogs and cats alike can suffer from heat-related problems. But keeping them indoors and out of the sun in a safe place to cool off and avoid the heat altogether should help them avoid heat exhaustion. Although it is tempting to let your pet have some playtime, remember to keep yourself and your pets safe. It might be better to allow your pets to play outside in the afternoon, right before the sun sets for the day.

3. Teach Pets to Take a Dip

Dogs are known for their love of water. They are also one of the most intelligent animals, making them teachable to swim. You can throw some toys, squeaky balls, and other goodies into the water for your pets to retrieve, allowing them to cool off in the water. Allowing pets like dogs to play in bodies of water does not only help them cool off but also fulfills the needed daily exercise to keep them strong and to go.

4. Spot Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

Be observant of your pet’s behavior when the weather is hot. If your pet is panting heavily and seems exhausted, it might be time to get some fresh water and a place to cool off. Contact your veterinarian if your pet still doesn’t seem to be getting any better. Also, remember not to allow your pets to go out during the sun's peak hours, usually from 10 AM to 2 PM, as it is the hottest time of the day.

5. Stay Clean

Keep your pets clean, especially the paws, known to be the dirtiest part of their body. If your pet is a bit more adventurous, brushing their fur and wiping them down will help keep them clean and keep sand and grit from getting into the coat.

Negative Effects of Heat Exhaustion in Pets

Heat exhaustion can cause significant problems for your pets if they don’t get the proper treatment. Some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion in pets include heavy panting, trouble breathing, lethargy, and weakness. Observe your pet and take action immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms. Always ensure that they have a safe place to cool off throughout the summer months.

Conclusion

Heat exhaustion can be dangerous for both you and your pets. Take the time to keep your pets healthy and safe this summer by keeping them safe from the heat and keeping their fur clean. Don’t forget to check on your pets regularly to ensure safety and health. If your pet is sick, injured, or has a medical condition, it might require more attention. Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian right away.

Earthwise Pet Supply & Grooming Bentonville is an established pet supplies company. Aside from offering the best pet supplies near you, we also provide CBD treats for pets to help them relax and calm down. As the best dog groomer in town, we can also help fend off the hot summer heat by giving your pets a wash and a haircut to freshen up their bodies. Book an appointment today or visit us in our physical store from 10 AM to 7 PM during weekdays and 10 AM to 6 PM during weekends.