Image source: Unsplash
Summer may seem the perfect time to head out for outdoor adventures and bask under the sun with your pets, but rising temperatures may be cause for concern. In this year alone, record-breaking heat waves have already swept through various parts of America, with some places like Las Vegas experiencing up to 119 degrees this month. These sweltering temperatures can pose health risks to you and your fur babies, making preventive measures all the more essential.
According to a National Geographic article, extreme weather conditions caused by climate change can significantly affect our pets. Experts say that animals can have difficulty coping with extreme heat as it overwhelms their thermoregulation, making it hard for them to shed excess heat, leading to heatstroke. To avoid that, here are some tips to keep your pets cool during the summer:
Keep your home cool
While most American homes already have centralized cooling systems, investing in a portable air cooler can make your house extra cool for your pets during summer. If you want to make your home extra chilly so your fur babies relax, you can look up reviews on Aircon Experts to help you find the best fit for your space and pets. Try looking at options for mini air coolers and portable air conditioners that you can place near your pets’ crates to cool them down. This can make temperature regulation easier for your pets during summer, keeping them cool and comfortable during the hotter months.
Avoid strenuous activities with your pets
It’s easy to get tempted to maximize the sunny weather outside with your pets during summer, but hot temperatures and over exhaustion don’t make a good combination. Our previous article on Hiking Adventures with Your Dog mentioned that strenuous activities like hiking can be harmful when done under the scorching heat. Unlike humans, dogs and cats cannot sweat through their skin, which makes it difficult for them to cool down, making them more vulnerable to heatstroke when exposed to extreme temperatures. To be safe, you can walk your pets outside early in the morning or late in the evening when the weather is coolest.
Provide fresh drinking water
Providing your pets with drinking water throughout the day can help them avoid dehydration during summer. Suppose you have a busy schedule but want to ensure your pet’s water bowl is regularly filled; in that case, you can check out automatically dispensing water bowls from brands like Pet Marvel to ensure your fur babies are frequently hydrated. These 2-in-1 food and water bowls have a smart water filtration system and a flushing mechanism, which ensures that your pets always have access to safe, clean water. You can also place bowls in various places in your home to give your pets more choices.
Use a cooling vest
You can also put a cooling vest on your pets for guaranteed heat protection. This type of pet clothing contains a special cooling gel designed to keep your fur baby’s body cool for extended periods. It’s perfect for the summer, especially if they like to move around your house and away from your portable air coolers. You can check reviews from stores like PetSmart or Amazon if you plan on buying some for your cat or dog. Make sure to douse the vest in water to allow evaporation, which helps cool down your pets.
Keeping your pets cool during scorching summer days is essential to prevent heatstroke and preserve their overall well-being. If you’re looking for safe and reliable pet transportation services for your fur babies this summer, check out our offerings on the TLC Pet Transport website.
Article contributed by Rachel Jennings
Leave a Reply