Summer is right around the corner, and with that comes sweltering hot days, beaming sunshine and an utter desperation to cool down. If you’re feeling this way, how do you think your pets will begin to feel as the sun starts getting hotter toward the back end of this year? Imagine trying to keep cool under all that fur (especially if they have a double coat).
To ensure your pet enjoys a cool and relaxing summer this year, some tips from the PetNest team include:
Keep your pet indoors where possible.
We know how hard this can be if you’re an outdoor pet household. However, keeping them indoors can ensure they have access to plenty of cool spaces. If you don’t want them wandering freely, we understand. Try to provide them access to a colder area of your home, such as a tiled laundry or bathroom. This way, they can relax without the impact of the sun.
Ensure they have plenty of water.
In the summer, water can evaporate quicker than in winter. This is the case if their bowls are indoors, too. So, it’s super important that you keep an eye on their water bowls to guarantee they always have a fresh and cool supply. Need to stock up on bowls? We have a range of bowls suited to all situations, from a day at home to a walk through the bushes.
On super hot days, you can also leave some ice behind in their bowl to give them an ice-cold drink to enjoy and regulate their temperature. Just ensure you leave their bowl in a shady space, especially if it’s made from metal to prevent it from heating up.
Give them a shady space to hide
If you must keep your pet outdoors, or they prefer to spend their time in the wind, be sure to provide them with plenty of shady space where they can relax. We recommend something like a sheltered area in your garden or access to your pergola. Even setting up a beach umbrella in your backyard can be enough to provide ample shady space for them to remain cool.
Try a cooling mat
Cooling mats are a godsend for pets on hot summer days. This is because they provide a cool space for your pet to sit when their body temperature is getting the better of them. Slip them into their kennel or bed to keep your furry friend’s temperate regulated all day long. Placing multiple cooling mats in their favourite spaces can also make sure they don’t miss out on the benefits, no matter where they choose to nap.
Make some summer dog treats.
Summer dog treats are super easy to make and, like ice, can help cool your pet down when they need it most. Try adding plain green yoghurt and pet-friendly fruits (such as bananas) to ice cube trays and leaving them in the freezer overnight. This simple treat is not only fun for them to chew and a great tool for cooling them down, but it’s also packed with nutrients to help them feel their best. Add some honey for an extra dose of antioxidising goodness.
Give them a summer pamper
Whether it’s hosing your pet down in the afternoon or brushing away all their excess fur, grooming should be at the top of your must-do list this summer. You can even set up a sprinkler on warm afternoons for a water-loving pet to enjoy, helping them remain cooler even when the sun is blazing.
Source everything you need from PetNest
From car seats for trips to the beach to grooming supplies to clean up excess fur, we have everything you need to keep your furry and feathered friends cool this summer. Explore our range and pet specials online today. Don’t forget, we’re always happy to recommend products to ensure your pet is as comfortable as can be.
