16/01/2026
🌞 Friday Summer Health Series – Senior Pets Edition 🐶🐱
Summer can be extra tough on our senior dogs and cats, so here are some practical tips, products & easy hacks to help keep them cool and comfortable during the warmer months 💛
❄️ Cooling comfort
• Cooling mats or gel pads for nap time (not recommended for dogs who like to chew)
• Many senior pets prefer to sleep and rest through the heat, so ensure their bed is in a cool, shaded, well-ventilated space
• Tiles, bathrooms or air-conditioned rooms can be great resting spots
🧊 Hydration hacks
• Place multiple water bowls around the house
• Add ice blocks (not just cubes) to keep water cooler for longer
• Pet water fountains to encourage drinking (cats LOVE fountains!)
• Add extra water or pet-safe broth to meals
🍦 Cool treats (senior-friendly)
• Frozen broth or diluted tuna water in ice cube trays
• Frozen Kongs or lick mats to help cool and mentally stimulate
• Wet food frozen into silicone moulds for a refreshing snack
🐾 Grooming matters
• Regular grooming helps remove excess fur and allows better airflow to the skin
• For double-coated breeds, clipping the coat is not recommended
• A well-maintained, brushed coat actually helps regulate body temperature and keep pets cooler — believe it or not!
• Regular brushing also reduces matting, skin irritation and trapped heat
🐾 Protect those paws & skin
• Walk early in the morning or later in the evening only
• If the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws
• Pets with pink noses or white fur may need pet-safe sunscreen on noses and ears
🚗 Summer travel tips
• Use sunshades in the car
• Bring a travel water bowl and a frozen water bottle
• Never leave pets unattended in the car, even briefly.
📞 Chat to our team if you have any concerns or questions about keeping your senior pet comfortable this summer.
💬 How old is your senior pet, and what helps them cope with the heat?
