This Alberta weather keeps getting hotter and hotter! As a pet owner, you know that our furry friends can struggle with high temperatures just as much as we do, if not more. If you’re feeling the heat, so are they! It’s essential to take extra steps to ensure your pets stay cool and comfortable. I not only capture your cherished moments with your pets but also care deeply about their well-being. In this blog post, I’ll share some practical heat wave hacks to help keep your pets safe and cool during those sweltering days! There are a ton of ways to keep your pets cool but I find that these are the basics!
1. Water, Water, Water
Hydration is the most important part! Keeping your pet’s water bowl full will ensure they always have access to a refreshing drink. If you have a dog that loves water, you could also fill a small pool or put the sprinkler on! This can be great enrichment while beating the summer heat. Just be sure to double-check that the water is cool. You can put ice cubes in your pet’s water but be sure they don’t drink too fast! If they’re in a hurry for a refreshing drink, they could swallow some air which can cause bloating. So just watch and regulate how quickly they gulp down their water.
2. A Cool Atmosphere
Fans don’t work entirely the same on pets as they do on us. That being said, I think there’s some truth in attempting to cool down a room with fans that your pet frequents or where their crate is located. Other options besides fans to cool down your pet are cooling mats, cold damp towels, switching their bed for a cooler one, or even lifting their bed off the ground slightly for more airflow! There are so many alternatives for keeping your furry friends cool during this heat wave!
3. Watch out for Heatstroke
We don’t get outrageous temperatures like some places but too much heat can still cause some issues. Knowing some of the symptoms of heatstroke could be a huge help if it comes to that.
Here are the symptoms to look for:
– Unusual breathing (rapid and loud)
– High rectal temperature (39 degrees Celsius or higher)
– Extreme thirst
– Weakness and/or fatigue
– Frequent vomiting
– Disorientation
– Dark or bright red tongue and gums
– Skin around the muzzle or neck doesn’t snap back when pinched
– Difficulty breathing
– Thick saliva
– Rapid heartbeat
– Heavy drooling
– Agitation
If you think your pet is overheating, bring them to a cool area immediately to try and lower their temperature. It’s best to pay a visit to the vet for an evaluation if their condition persists!
4. Walking Times
Changing the time you walk to the morning or evening when the temperature is lower will make both you and your dog appreciate the stroll even more! Walking on grass or hiking where there are gravel or dirt paths also makes a big difference. If those options are not available, don’t sweat it! Change your walking time or even check the pavement to make sure your dog’s paws can handle the warmth. Place the back of your hand down on the paved walkway and try to leave it there for 7-10 seconds. If you can’t handle it, then your dog’s feet can’t either! Boots could also be a great investment!
5. My Precautions
If you have a photo session scheduled with me, 9 times out of 10 it’s usually around golden hour. That is one safety measure I take with my sessions to ensure that it’s not sweltering hot! The morning and evening golden hours are amazing for photographs and to have it not too warm during the shoot. Another step we can take with you and your furry friends is to find a bright shaded area to take our pictures. On a sunny day, the shade is perfect for photo sessions! No one is squinting, and even though it’s shadowy, it will still be bright enough to see everyone’s beautiful faces!
As we wrap up our tips on keeping your pets cool during a heat wave, remember that their comfort and safety are paramount! Implementing these simple hacks can make a significant difference in your pet’s well-being during those scorching summer days. From providing plenty of water and shade, to creating fun, cooling activities, you can help your furry friends beat the heat. Don’t forget to share your favourite heat wave hacks and stay connected for more tips and insights. Here’s to a safe, cool, and enjoyable summer with your beloved pets!