The Met Office has issued a heatwave alert for England this week. How do you and your pets beat the heat when temperatures rise?
It may sound obvious, but it’s always important to remember that staying hydrated in these conditions is essential – and that goes for our pets, too!
Don’t forget that us dogs need plenty of water too! #heatwave pic.twitter.com/Wy67AI9sFQ
— Bonnie Le Bon 🐕 (@DuranDuranDog) June 25, 2018
My two lurchers love the warmth of the sun and can regularly be found stretched out in patches of sunlight on the stairs or the kitchen floor, but it’s vital you make sure there’s always enough shade available if they need it.
Beat the heat
I tend to take them for walks in the early morning and evenings to avoid the more intense heat. It’s also important to remember that the pavement/tarmac can get very hot – so hot, in fact, that it can burn the pads on their feet.
If they start picking their feet up, it’s too hot for a walk. Dogs and other pets can suffer from heatstroke just like humans, so it’s worth knowing the signs.
PLEASE RT – With a #heatwave on the way, make sure you keep an eye out for these warning signs. If you’re concerned that your dog has #heatstroke, gradually cool your pet with water or water-soaked towels, and call your vet straight away for advice. #PetFirstAid #Summersafety pic.twitter.com/XQpEO3I1vc
— PDSA (@PDSA_HQ) June 24, 2018
When we’re out on our walks we always carry a dog water bottle with us – not only for them to drink, but to drizzle over them if they need it. A water spritzer is also a good idea if you’re on the move.
Dogs are often fascinated by ice cubes and mine are no exception. They love chasing them around the kitchen floor then crunching them up. I’ve even found they’re especially fond of frozen yoghurt!
And it’s not just pets who need help keeping cool. The RSPB has advised people to leave water out in your garden for birds to drink and bathe in:
It’s a #heatwave! Make sure to put out plenty of water for the birds in your garden so they can keep cool and have enough to drink! https://t.co/bHU7PLThvO 🌞🐦🌻💧 pic.twitter.com/hmJ7w7LSQF
— RSPB (@Natures_Voice) June 25, 2018
Your tips
Many of us enjoy making the most of the warm weather, but it can be easy to forget the effects of a heatwave on our furry friends.
I’ve learnt a lot over the years with my two lurchers, but I’m always interested in hearing how others go about keeping their pets cool when the sun starts blazing.
Whether you’ve got a dog, cat or any other pet, let us know your best tips for enjoying the warm weather safely.