How to keep your pet cool this Summer

How to keep your pet cool this summer.

Are you summer ready?

With the arrival of spring and the approach of summer, it may be wise to make preparations for the warmer weather.

All pets, whether you have a cat, dog, horse, pony, or exotic one, are sensitive to and impacted by the weather. Animals can easily overheat because of their inability to adequately perspire. in spite of whether whether they are covered in scales, feathers, or fur.

They will be more relaxed and comfortable if you keep them cool.

There are a few things you can do to help your indoor pets stay cool on hot days.

For inside pets:

• Moving your indoor pet to a cooler location, such as a room without carpeting and away from windows that may transfer heat, will help alleviate the effects of the summer heat.
• Be sure to provide plenty of clean water for your pet at all times.
• Your pet may appreciate being sprayed with cold water from a spray bottle.
• Put your pet in a spot where there is some kind of breeze, fan, or cooling.
• Have a cold towel on the ground for them to lay on.
• Keep the curtain/blinds closed.
• Raise the animal’s bed off the floor, which may be too warm.
• Provide your pet bird or reptile with a shallow bath.

Outside pets:

• Offer some shade to your equine companion.
• Provide a cooling mat or something similar for them to lay on.
• Leave the stable doors open to let in some fresh air for your horse.
• Keep your horse’s stable doors open, to allow a breeze to flow through.
• If you want to saddle or sponge off your pony or horse, make sure to scrape off any excess water as this may interfere with their natural cooling mechanism.

Exercise should be avoided during the hottest parts of the day for all pets. If your hand can’t handle the heat, neither can a puppy’s paws.
Never leave your pet in the sun or in a hot vehicle. The temperature in a car can double within minutes.

Keep an eye on your pets and look out for signs of heat exhaustion or discomfort.

Symptoms might include:

• Rapid heartbeat or breathing.
• Excessive panting
• Restless
• Vomiting
• The Reddish Coloration of the Gums
• Lethargic
• Loss of appetite
• The elasticity of a horse’s skin may be compromised, giving the appearance of being hallow.
• Birds often stand with their legs apart and their wings outstretched.
• Skin or tongue discoloration is a possibility in reptiles.

Remember to contact your local vet or animal emergency facility (even if it’s after hours) if you have any worries about your pet’s health or well-being.