How To Keep Your Pets Cool In Hot & Humid Weather
Don't forget to keep your pets cool, comfortable and hydrated
While keeping ourselves cool is usually at the forefront of our minds during hot and humid days in Singapore, preparing your pets for the heat should also be a priority.
If neglected, pets of all kinds face the dangers of dehydration and heat stroke for a number of different reasons. While knowing the signs of heat stress is important, it's even more crucial for pet owners to prevent this in the first place.
Here, we call on the experts to share their top tips.
It may sound obvious but keeping your pets indoors and out of the heat is the most effective thing you can do to keep them cool.
When possible, bring your pet inside and always ensure that water bowls remain full. You can even add ice cubes on warmer days to keep the water cooler for longer, or freeze some treats.
"Warm weather combined with a limited supply of water or shade can lead to your pet suffering from severe heat stress and dehydration. Keeping your pet comfortable on a hot day, whether you are at home or not, is your responsibility as a pet owner," says veterinarian-trained Dr Sasha Nefedova, general manager of Australian pet essentials chain Petstock Vet.
"The most common signs of dehydration include loss of skin elasticity, acting flat or lethargic, sunken eyes, excessive panting or even collapsing. If you notice any of these signs, take them to your local vet immediately for an examination."
"Your pet can never have too much fresh and cool water, especially during hot weather. Have multiple water bowls available. Provide your pet with fresh water daily, and monitor your buddy's daily water intake. 'Normal' intake varies from 20-70mls/kg per day, depending on your pet's diet and activity," explains Dr Rod Sharpin, veterinarian and founder of PetStock Vet.
"Use a heavy container or place a weight in the bottom of your pet's water bowl so it cannot be easily knocked over," he says.
Temperatures inside cars can swell significantly higher than external temperatures. "On a 25-degree day, the temperature within the car can get to 35-degrees within 10 minutes. Pets can develop fatal heat stress within 10 minutes of being in a hot car," says Dr Kate Bruce, veterinarian and Royal Canin ambassador.
You wouldn't leave a child in a car, so don't leave your pets in one either.
Note these signs
Heat stress can prove fatal for animals and it occurs when your pet overheats in hot, humid environments. Signs to watch out for include:
Excessive panting and drooling
Appearing flat and lethargic
Tacky gums (a key sign of dehydration)
Wobbly legs, collapsing or being unstable on feet
Warm to touch, especially the less furred areas such as the belly
What to do
"If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stress, cool them down by wetting with cool (not cold) water, or bring them into an air-conditioned environment. Seek vet assistance immediately. This is especially important in ‘pocket pets’ like guinea pigs, rabbits and birds that are particularly sensitive to heat," says Dr Bruce.
Heat stroke is another risk on warm days, particularly with energetic dogs. To reduce the risk of heat stroke, avoid exercising or visiting the beach during the hottest part of the day – early mornings or late afternoons are best.
"The best time to take your dog on their daily walk is either early in the morning or late afternoon when the temperature has dropped, unless you have access to body of water or shade that can work to keep your pet cool," says Dr Nefedova.
She adds: "If you do walk them during the day, walk on grassy areas and always avoid hot pavements to ensure the heat doesn't burn your pet's paw pad. As a rule of thumb, put your hand on the pavement for seven seconds before heading outdoors with your dog. If it's too hot for your hand, then it's too hot for your dogs' paws."
Swimming is also a great way for dogs to get some exercise and stay cool. If a beach isn't easily accessible, a dog pool is a great alternative.
Provide a well-balanced and quality diet to support your pet's nutritional needs. "Weight management is extremely important as overweight pets typically succumb to the heat more quickly," explains Dr Bruce. "Opt for brands like Royal Canin that offer tailored nutrition according to the characteristics of a pet's breed, size and age," she says.
From cooling mats and collars to fun toys that you can fill with water, there are plenty of great cooling toys and accessories available to help keep your pets cool and entertained this summer.
For birds, using a spray bottle filled with water will help to keep your feathery friends cool. A bird bath is also a great option. Ensure the bath is deep enough for your bird to have a splash around, but not so deep that they're unable get out on their own.
Bunnies, ferrets and guinea pigs are very sensitive to heat as well – it is essential their hutch is kept in a cool, shady place and brought inside on days when the weather gets extreme. And if you have fishes, it's important to keep fish tanks away from windows and direct sun.
Finally, domestic pets aren't the only ones affected by the heat. Leave a bowl of water out for wildlife, too.
Text: Homes To Love