Keeping Cool

Dogs, cats and other pets can be vulnerable in the heat and strong sunshine of the summer months

WE ALL LOVE the summer sunshine, but spare a thought for our pets when the temperatures start to soar. Katy Alexander, vet with national pet charity Blue Cross, has some tops tips on how you can protect your pet throughout the hot summer. She explains, “While we enjoy the sunshine and hot weather, it is important to make sure our pets are kept safe. They can quickly overheat and this can be extremely dangerous and even fatal.” 

No afternoon walks

Walk your dog during cooler times of day in the early morning or evening and avoid strenuous games. If the weather remains hot then it’s safer to allow your pet to flop inside in the cool if you think it’s too hot outside. 

Access to water bowls

Make sure your pet always has access to clean water, ideally in a large bowl filled to the brim. Older animals, particularly cats, are more vulnerable to dehydration. 

Alternative exercise