Summer Is Here (Finally!)

After what feels like an eternity, Summer is finally here. And what a scorcher we are having so far (OK, I have probably jinxed it now and i'm sure it will be raining when you get to read this!). Summer is all about holidays, trips to the beach, Ice Cream, BBQ's, paddling pools, sun loungers.......everything we spend a whole year looking forward to.

Traditionally, the British Summer ends up being around 3 days of sun, and then rain for the remaining days, however recently, we have been enjoying a mini heat wave, with a further heat wave forecast for August.  Whilst this glorious weather is welcome news for us, our furry friends often may not share the same enthusiasm for these hotter days...

Dehydration and heat stroke are just two conditions that can affect our pets during the hotter weather.

Below we have listed 5 things you can do to ensure your pet stays fit and healthy during the Summer: 

1. Alter the time for 'walkies' - You may have a routine set up where your dog goes for a walk at a certain time, however during these hotter days it's important to only walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day.  This could be early morning, or late evening.  If it is still too hot to take your dog out at these times, dont panic.  It's better for your dog to miss one walk, than to suffer the consequences of walking in the heat.
2. Cooling Mats - Most owners aren't aware of these fantastic gadgets that can really benefit your pet.  Suitable for dogs, cats and rabbits, the cooling mats are a revolutionary way of helping your pet to stay cool. There a variety of mats available, and they all work in slightly different ways, however they all produce the same outcome - a cool place for your pet to lay down.  Mats are available from all good pet stores and can be found online.
3. Avoid long car journeys - We all know what can happen to dogs in hot cars.  However, what many don't realise is that a moving car can be just as dangerous as a parked car for our dogs. Whilst we may have planned our journeys carefully, and even have scheduled rest stops, a long car journey can encounter many challenges for our dogs, such as the unexpected traffic jam.  Where possible, try to avoid long car journeys with your dog, or, if needed, aim to travel at quieter (and cooler) times of day
4. Water - It goes without saying, our pets have a right to fresh, clean drinking water, and in the summer months, this is even more important.  Your pets will naturally drink more fluid during warmer days, so always ensure they have water available.  An ice cube or two in their water could also be a welcome addition. 
5. A place (not) in the sun - An area where your pet can retreat away from the sun will support your pet to regulate their body temperature.  Your pet may prefer to go back into your home and lay on a tiled floor, or they may be happier with an area of the garden that is in the shade. Small animals, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, often dont have  the option to find their preferred area - they are limited by where you put them.  Carefully consider where you place their hutch and/or run. Remember - just because you want to lay in the sun all day, it doesnt mean your pet wants to aswell.

If you have any questions, or you are wanting further advice on how to keep your pet safe during the Summer heat, feel free to call us and we will happily help.