3 Cool Ways to Help Your Pet Beat the Heat

As we enter the dog days of summer, pooches—and cats—are feeling the heat. Instead of sitting in front of the air-conditioning unit all summer long, our team at Poway Animal Hospital has put together a list of cool tricks, to help your furry pal cope with the heat of summer.   

#1: Freeze treats for your pet

Does your pup look longingly at your ice cream sundae as you devour your chilly treat? Since all the sugar and chocolate won’t do your best friend any favors, create a pet-friendly “pupsicle” for your pal. Kitties will also enjoy feline-friendly treats, despite being indoors and more protected from the hot weather. For your pooch, try stuffing a rubber Kong with their favorite canned food mixed with yogurt, peanut butter, fresh veggies, or kibble, and pop it in the freezer for a couple of hours. For your cat, fill a feline-sized Kong with canned food, tuna, and kibble, or create kitty ice cubes with tuna juice and water. These cool treats will be a big hit when the temperatures skyrocket.

#2: Use water to cool your pet safely

Although we doubt your cat will appreciate a kitty swimming pool, your pooch will likely delight in splashing in their personal wading pool. On hot days, fill a kiddie pool with a few inches of water, and toss in your pet’s favorite toys for them to fetch, for a fun game that will also cool off your pup. With no chance that your pet’s head will go under the water, or they will drink the chlorinated pool water, a wading pool filled with fresh, clean water is the perfect set up to help beat the heat.

#3: Avoid exercising and playing outside with your pet in the heat of the day

Check the forecast before heading outdoors with your pet. Choose the coolest part of the day to exercise and play with your furry pal, avoiding the hottest afternoon temperatures. Also, keep a close eye on the humidity level, since some breeds, particularly flat-faced breeds, cannot handle excessive humidity. Early morning may be your best option for outdoor activities with your pet.

If you notice overheating signs in your furry pal—heavy panting, excessive drooling, staggering, disorientation—contact our team immediately.