Whew, is it just us, or did someone suddenly crank the UK’s thermostat up to max?
I think many people this week have walked outside, and said ‘wow it's hot!’ with temperatures smashing past 30°C this week, even creeping towards a roasting 40°C in some areas towards the end of the week.
While Jacob is currently trying to figure out how to build a misting system for the horses, and Guinness has firmly superglued his belly to the cold kitchen tiles, we need to talk about keeping our furry family members safe.
Pets can’t just peel off a layer or sweat it out like we do. Extreme heat is a genuine emergency for pets. So, let’s dive into how to keep your cats and dogs cool, and exactly what to look out for if the heat gets the better of them.
5 Simple Ways to Keep Pets Cool
Preventing heat stress is a whole lot easier than treating it. Here are some quick, practical things you can do right now:
- The 5-Second Tarmac Test: Before you head out, place the back of your hand flat on the pavement. If you can’t comfortably hold it there for five seconds, it is far too hot for your dog's paws. Stick to early morning or late evening walks when the ground has cooled down.
- Hydration Stations Everywhere: Place multiple water bowls around the house and garden. (If you’re looking for a durable, eco-friendly option, our Ochien bowls made from recycled ocean plastic are brilliant for this and won't tip over easily!).
- Create Cool Zones: Close the curtains on sun-facing windows to keep rooms dark and cool. Set up fans, or put down damp towels for your pets to lie on.
- Frozen Treats: Treat your dog to some dog-friendly ice cream, or try freezing some chicken or beef bone broth, turning their favourite treats into ice cubes keeps them occupied and hydrated.
- Don't Forget the Cats! Cats are notorious for hiding when they feel unwell. Make sure they have access to cool, shaded indoor spaces, and try stroking them with a damp cloth to help cool them down.
It should go without saying, but never leave your dog in a car, even for "just a minute" with the windows down. On a 30°C day, the inside of a car can top 40°C in less than ten minutes. It becomes an oven. If you see a dog trapped in a hot car in distress, call 999 immediately.
Spotting the Signs: Heat Exhaustion vs. Heatstroke
It is vital to know the difference between a pet who is just a bit warm and a pet in serious danger. Animals hide discomfort well, so keep a close eye on them.
Signs to Watch For
| Animal | Signs of Heat Exhaustion (Act Fast) | Signs of Heatstroke (Severe Emergency) |
| Dogs | Heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, bright red gums, pacing or restlessness. | Vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion/stumbling, seizures, collapse, or loss of consciousness. |
| Cats | Panting (cats rarely pant, so this is a big warning sign), grooming excessively, sweaty paws, lethargy. | Stumbling, rapid heart rate, dark red or pale gums, vomiting, collapse. |
Emergency First Aid: What to Do:
If you suspect your dog or cat is suffering from heatstroke, seconds count. Do not wait for a vet appointment, start cooling them down immediately while someone else calls the vet.
- Move them to the shade: Get them into a cool, air-conditioned, or fan-cooled room immediately.
- Use cool (not freezing) water: Pour cool water over their body, especially their tummy, armpits, and groin. Do not use ice or freezing cold water, as this can cause their blood vessels to constrict, actually trapping heat inside their body and causing shock.
- Offer water: Let them drink small amounts of cool water if they are conscious, but don't force them.
- Keep air moving: Use a fan or a breeze to help evaporate the water on their fur, this mimics the cooling effect of sweating.
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Get to the vet: Even if your pet seems to be recovering, they must be checked by a professional, as heatstroke can cause internal organ damage that isn't instantly visible.
Stay Safe, Pack!
This week is going to be a scorcher, so let’s all take it easy. Skip the long midday walks, embrace the lazy indoor days, and keep those water bowls topped up.
If you're out and about early or late near Buckingham, don't forget to swing by The Dog House self-serve shed for some refreshing, healthy goodies to reward your brave pups for staying chilled.
Stay cool, look out for each other, and we'll see you on the other side of the heatwave!
Ryan, Jacob & Guinness🐾