How to keep your pets safe in summer

During the summer months, ensuring your pets stay cool and safe during the hot weather is essential. Whether you have dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, or other companion animals, the high temperatures can pose serious risks, from heat stress to dehydration.

To help you keep your furry friends safe this summer, we’ve turned to two trusted animal experts: Janet Murray, Founder and Director of Animal Academy and Veterinary Nursing Educator, and Dr Tim Hopkins, Operations Manager and Emergency Veterinarian at SASH Northern Beaches. Below, we dive into their top tips to ensure your pets stay cool, comfortable, and healthy all summer long.

Tip 1. Escape the heat with shade and plenty of fresh, clean water

Providing ample shade and access to fresh drinking water is crucial for keeping your pets cool on hot days. Pets can quickly become dehydrated or may even suffer from heat stress if they don't have a cool place to rest and drink.

Set up shaded areas in your garden or outdoor spaces where your pet can escape direct sunlight. This could be under a tree, a canopy, or a pet-safe shelter. Remember that as the sun moves throughout the day, so does the shade, so ensure there's always a cool spot available.

"Always provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, especially during hot weather," advises Janet Murray. "Make sure they have access to shaded areas to help them stay cool and prevent overheating."

Keeping your pet's water bowl filled with fresh, cool water is vital. On very hot days, consider adding ice cubes to keep the water cooler for longer. Ensure multiple water sources are available, especially if your pet moves between indoors and outdoors. This encourages them to drink more, helping to regulate their body temperature.

Tip 2. Avoid walking or exercising pets in the midday heat

Exercise is important for your pet's health, but during summer, timing is everything. Avoid walking or exercising pets, especially your dogs, on hot days during the midday heat when temperatures peak. Instead, opt for early morning or late evening walks when it’s cooler outside.

"Be mindful of the temperature of pavement and sand when walking your pets," says Murray. "Hot surfaces can burn their paw pads, so try to walk them during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening. During peak heat hours, limit your pets' outdoor activities to prevent overheating and heat-related illnesses. Opt for shorter walks and playtime in cooler shaded areas."

Dr Hopkins echoes this sentiment, explaining that prevention is key to keeping pets safe during summer. “Prevention is always better than cure,” he explains. “On very hot days, keeping your pets indoors with air conditioning is the safest option, especially for short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds and those with chronic medical conditions.”

By adjusting exercise times and providing a cooler indoor environment, you can significantly reduce the risk of heat stroke and dehydration in your pets.

Tip 3. Consider breed-specific health issues in the heat

All pets have their own unique needs, and some are more prone to overheating than others.

“Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like bulldogs are at particularly high risk due to their anatomy, which makes it harder for them to breathe and hence regulate heat,” notes Dr Hopkins. On top of this, older animals may also find it harder to regulate their body temperature. This means they can overheat more quickly than other pets.

Pets with thick coats need proper grooming to allow air circulation but should generally not be shaved, as their fur also protects them from sunburn. "Avoid clothing your pets, especially during the summer months, as they already have their own fur coats," Murray advises. "Extra insulation can lead to overheating."

You should also keep an eye out for older dogs, puppies, and pets with existing health conditions. These pets may struggle more in hot weather, requiring extra care, like shorter walks and additional rest periods in cool environments. Light-coloured pets, including white cats, can be prone to sunburn on areas with thin fur like the ears and nose. Pet-safe sunscreen can help protect them from harmful UV rays.

Tip 4. Protect against tick paralysis and snake bites

Summer can bring an increase in parasites and wildlife that can pose risks to your pets. Ticks are more common in summer and can transmit diseases like tick paralysis.

Dr Hopkins warns, “As the temperature (and humidity) rises, ticks thrive. Paralysis ticks can be life-threatening if your pet is not on an effective preventative.”

"Keep your pets safe from fleas, ticks, and other parasites that thrive in warm weather," says Murray. "Regularly check your pets for signs of infestations and consider using veterinarian-recommended preventive treatments."

Snakes also become more active in hot weather. "Snakes of all stripes will be more active as their body temperature depends on ambient conditions,” says Dr Hopkins.

“This leads to an increased risk of bites, which can be serious and life-threatening. Take a walk around your garden or property to check for any snakes that may have accidentally entered, ensuring a safe outdoor space for your pets to enjoy," Murray suggests.

Tip 5. Never leave pets alone in the car

Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can rise rapidly, posing a serious risk. Leaving a pet alone in a car, even for a short time, can lead to heatstroke or worse. This is true for dogs, cats in carriers, and even small pets like guinea pigs or rabbits if they travel with you.

Take this stat: according to Animal Welfare Victoria, pets left in a hot car can get heat stroke, brain damage, or even die in as little as four to six minutes.

Hot cars can become like ovens under direct sunlight, and in the summer heat, cracking the windows does little to reduce the temperature. If you're running errands or working, it’s best to leave your pet at home in a cool, safe environment.

Tip 6. Consider investing in dog summer products

Ready to keep your pet cool and comfortable this summer? While these products are geared towards dogs, many of the items below can be used to keep cats and even rabbits cool in the summer heat.

Summer dog beds

These breathable, elevated beds allow air to flow underneath to keep pets cool. While designed for dogs, a cooler resting spot can also be helpful for cats or smaller animals, providing a raised platform or a cool mat.

Look for beds labelled as "cooling" or "summer" dog beds. These often use fabrics that wick away moisture and heat, providing a more comfortable place for your pet to relax.

Dog shoes for summer

Dog shoes can protect paw pads from scorching hot surfaces. While cats, rabbits, and other small pets may not tolerate footwear, the principle remains: avoid letting any animals linger on hot surfaces that could burn their paws.

Dog cooling mats

“Consider using cooling mats for your pets, such as cats, rabbits, and dogs,” suggests Murray. “Just remember not to freeze the mat, and always ensure your pet has the option to move away if they choose.”

Cooling mats can provide relief on very hot days and can be adapted for other pets by choosing appropriate sizes and types.

Additional tips for keeping your pet cool

Regular grooming can help remove excess fur and improve air circulation against your pet’s skin. Indoor cooling methods, like wet towels, fans or air conditioning, can make a significant difference for all pets.

Murray encourages proactive planning for emergencies like bushfires. “Create a fire safety plan that includes easy access to your pets’ cages. Be ready to execute your escape plan quickly and keep a supply of spare food and a water bowl on hand so your pets are cared for if you need to leave in a hurry.”

Dr Hopkins adds that summer also brings holiday gatherings and beach outings, which come with extra hazards. “The summer months are a gauntlet of hazards for our pets in Australia,” says Dr Hopkins. “During holiday celebrations, pets may encounter toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and macadamia nuts, or develop gastrointestinal problems from high-fat foods like sausages. The beach can also present risks, including drownings, near drownings, ingestion of sand causing intestinal obstructions, fishhooks, and puffer fish.”

Recognising the signs of heatstroke in pets

Heatstroke is a serious risk for all animals and requires immediate attention. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, and bright red or blue gums and tongue.

If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cool place out of direct sunlight, offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water, and wet their fur with lukewarm water. Avoid ice-cold water or ice packs directly on their skin, and contact your vet immediately.

Summer safety tips for pets other than dogs

Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals also need protection from the heat. Keep their enclosures shaded, well-ventilated, and stocked with fresh, cool water. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.

"Regularly check your outdoor rabbits, as they are vulnerable to fly strike," warns Murray. "This condition occurs when flies lay eggs on their hindquarters, leading to maggots, which pose serious health risks."

Murray also gives advice for feline friends:

"Keep your cat cool and comfortable by providing plenty of fresh water and ensuring they have access to shaded areas indoors. Limit their outdoor time during the hottest parts of the day, and consider using fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature. Additionally, regularly brush your cat to reduce shedding and help them stay cooler."

Keep Reading: For more tips on pet safety in cold weather, read our guide about how to keep your pets safe in winter.

Keeping your cat or dog protected all year round

Keeping your pets safe in summer involves proactive steps to ensure they stay cool and comfortable. By providing shade, fresh water, and adjusting routines to avoid the midday heat, you can help your pet enjoy the warmer months safely.

Despite our best efforts, unexpected situations like heatstroke, tick paralysis, or snake bites can still occur. Unfortunately, the veterinary treatments for these conditions can be costly. That's why considering pet insurance for your cat or dog could be important — as it can provide a safety net for unforeseen medical expenses.

With Choosi, you can compare a range of Pet Insurance options, get a quote online, and find the right coverage to suit your pet's needs and budget. This allows you to choose a policy that offers the best protection for your furry friend all year round, giving you peace of mind throughout the summer and beyond. With a little extra care and the right precautions, you and your pets can enjoy a safe and happy summer together.