Summer is finally here, and while we are reaching for iced lattes and sunscreen, our furry companions are feeling the heat in a much different way. What feels like a warm, sunny day to you can quickly become overwhelming for them. Unlike us, pets can’t simply shed a layer when the temperature climbs. They rely entirely on us to keep them safe and comfortable. And the tricky part is, they cannot always tell you when something feels off. A little extra heat, less water, or even a short walk at the wrong time can quietly take a toll. So, how do you make sure your pet stays safe, cool, and comfortable through it all? Let’s break it down.
Why Are Summers So Hard for Pets?
The scorching heat of Indian summers can be difficult for anyone, but it is more so for your furry friends. This is because pets regulate their body temperature very differently from humans. Unlike humans, who sweat through their skin, dogs usually cool themselves by panting, while cats rely on grooming and middling sweat through their paws. On extremely hot and humid days, these subtle mechanisms aren’t simply enough.
When a pet’s body temperature goes over its usual range, it can soon escalate from mild discomfort to heat exhaustion and, even, life-threatening heatstroke. Meanwhile, this risk is even higher for certain pets like young puppies or kittens, overweight pets, or breeds like huskies or Persian cats. Therefore, it is important for pet parents to be on their toes in summer and take extra precautions.
Tips To Protect Your Pet From Summer Heat
Hydration Is the Key
Whether it is humans or animals, dehydration is one of the most common risks during the summer. Make sure your dog or cat has an ample supply of fresh water in their water bowl. Make sure the water bowl is away from direct sunlight to prevent it from heating up. When heading out, remember to have a portable water bottle and a bowl for your pet. Furthermore, feeding them fruits with a high water content might help them stay hydrated. This not only keeps your pet hydrated but also reduces the likelihood of heatstroke.
Make a Cool, Chilling Spot
Since your four-legged friends spend most of their summer days indoors, it is important for them to have a cool and shaded resting space. Ensure that they have access to cool, well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight, preferably beneath a fan. If you don’t see one, you can make one with umbrellas or portable sunshades.
Watch Out for Hot Spots
Direct sunshine may heat the pavements, sand, and roadsides on which your pet walks, burning their paws. So, when going on a stroll, use your hand to check the ground temperature. If it is too hot for you to touch, it is also too hot for your pet. If such is the case, try walking on grass or wearing pet booties to keep their paws safe.
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Spoil Them With Cold Treats
Who doesn’t love a cold snack on a boiling day? You can make simple, healthy “pupsicles” by freezing diluted, low-sodium chicken broth or plain yogurt in ice trays. For a quicker fix, offer frozen blueberries or small chunks of seedless watermelon. These treats provide extra hydration while keeping your pet mentally stimulated. Just remember to introduce new foods gradually and avoid any added sugars or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which are toxic to animals.
Feed Them Right
A nutritious and balanced diet is essential for your pet’s health. Pets may be less hungry in the summer, so provide them with smaller meals more frequently. Increase the amount of broths, soups, vegetables, and fruits such as melons in your pet’s diet to promote natural hydration. Don’t give them spoiled food from parties or picnics, as this might lead to intestinal problems.
Time Your Walks
To be healthy and fit, dogs usually require some form of physical activity on a regular basis. Walking them, however, under the hot midday sun may be quite unsafe. The sun is brightest in the late morning and afternoon, making walks dangerous. Take your pets on walks early in the morning or after dusk, when the ground and air are cooler. This can help avoid painful paw burns, which occur when pets walk on hot pavements. It’s usually a good idea to restrict your outside time in the summer. Also, when going for a walk, look for places that have less direct sunlight and are generally cooler, like a park full of trees.
Never Leave Them in Cars
You probably already know this if you have been a pet parent for years, but if you are new to having a canine companion, remember that keeping them locked in a car on hot summer days is a big no! Even with the windows cracked, vehicles may become excessively hot in a short period of time. This is why you should never leave your pets alone in the car, even for a short time. Since pets are more sensitive to heat, dogs are far more sensitive to heat than humans and can experience heat stroke or even organ failure in a matter of minutes.
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The Bottom Line
Ultimately, loving our pets means looking out for them when the mercury rises. By prioritizing hydration, shifting your walk timings, and staying alert to the warning signs of heatstroke, you can ensure a safe, joyful summer for your furry family members. After all, they depend on us to make the right calls. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy the sunshine together.
(The article is written by Ehsan Siddiqui, Team Lead and reviewed by Monalisa Deka, Deputy Manager, Clinical Health & Content, Medical Affairs)