25/05/2026
* TOP TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE IN THE HEAT* 🥵
🔥In general🔥
Make use of cool mats, keep windows and curtains closed during the day, and open them again when it cools down late evening. Use fans if you have them, provide plenty of cool water, have a paddling pool in the shade, pop some treats in the freezer for them to lick- be cautious that they do not ingest large quantities of ice in one go.
🐕 Dogs
There is no harm in skipping walks all together in hot weather. If you do take them out, only do so early morning, or, IF cool enough, late evening. In shady woods and by rivers is ideal, as it will be cooler in these areas.
Keep in mind that at 25 degree's and above, the pavement can be hot enough to burn their paws!
Avoid high activity games such as throwing balls, agility, running around.
Be especially careful if your dog is more senior, a puppy, has a medical condition, has a dark coloured coat, or is brachycephalic ( has a shortened nose/muzzle)
Monitor for signs of heatstroke
* Excessive panting and drooling
* Restlessness/unsettled
* Bright/dark red gums
* Lethergy
* Excessive thirst
* Increased heart rate
* Vomiting & Diarrhoea
* Weakness/disorientation
* Muscle tremors/seizures
* Collapse/loss of consciousness
❗️If you suspect your dog has heatstroke
* Ensure they are moved to a shady/coolest area possible.
* Cool them down immediately with continuous dousing of cool water (1-15 degrees)
* Get the air con on in the car and get them to the nearest veterinary surgery as soon as possible.
🚫 Do not cover with wet towels - this will inhibit evaporation which is need to cool them
❗️Be aware that if your hosepipe has been in the sun, the water sitting inside could be scalding hot!
🐈 CATS
Cats are generally less prone to heat stroke than dogs, as long as they have access to a cool area and plenty of fresh water.
If a cat is open mouth breathing, this is not normal and can be a sign they are over heating!
Cats can be very picky about the temperature of their food and will not always be willing to eat cold/frozen food or treats.
🐇🐁 🐦SMALL FURRIES/BIRDS
Ensure their habits are in the coolest place possible.
Provide plenty of fresh water
Keep any species suitable greens/veggies in the fridge
Use cool mats underneath cages/bedding - caution that they do not chew them!
Use an oscillating fan in the room if you have one.
Keep them out of direct sunlight (closed curtains)
🐓 POULTRY
Chickens in particular a very susceptible to over heating due to their insulating feathers and a normal body temperature of 40 degree's!
They need plenty of fresh, cool water - keep drinkers out of the sun.
Provide as much shade as possible, keep the sun off of their coops, provide shallow paddling areas of water - cat litter trays are great for this,
Offer frozen treats such as berries and peas for them to peck at, also adding cold water to their pellets will increase hydration and they tend to love a mash! Cold food in their crops will help to keep them cool.
Open coop doors as early in the morning as possible. If they are in a predator proof run, consider leaving the coop doors open at night, or closing them as late as possible.
Keep an eye out for red mites which will thrive in this weather.
HORSES/PONIES 🐎
If you have access to stables, consider bringing them in during the day and turning them out when cooler in the evening IF the stables are cooler.
If they are out in a field, ensure they have access to natural shade or a field shelter. Provide hay and water in these shady areas to encourage them to use it.
Make use of fly rugs and masks - lighter colours are better at reflecting the sun.
Consider clipping them out, especially for hairy, older, overweight horses/ponies and those with conditions such as cushings.
They may require extra electrolytes, but be careful if they have not been used to these in their diet.
Exercise them early morning or late evening if cool enough. Consider cancelling transporting them to events. They can overheat in horse boxes very quickly.
Hose them off with cool water - be very cautious if the hosepipe has been sitting un the sun!! You don't need to scrape them off.
🐟🐠🪸AQUARIUMS
Ensure they are not in direct sunlight
Keep a close eye on your thermometer and research the maximum safe temperature for your species of fish.
Keep the tank lights off for longer periods.
Consider venting the tank by keeping the lid open - caution if you have fish that will jump out!
Carry out small water changes with cool water - Ensure you monitor your parameters to avoid unbalancing the natural biome and avoid sudden temperature changes.
Add a small ice pack to the water if it's safe to do so.
Keep the room temperature as cool as possible.
❗️If you have any concerns with your pets, always contact your veterinary surgery for help & advice
