Tips to keep your pets happy in hot season

Australian summers can get very hot. It is very important to look after our pets, so they won't overheat and stay healthy and safe.

I've listed some facts and ideas to help you make sure your dogs and cats stay comfortable and happy.

Excessive salivation panting cooling is normal behavior for cats and dogs. Because of this panting need extra water, so they don't get dehydrated.
Some of the most common risk factors for heat stroke are old age, obesity, heart disease, exercise & the simple fact of having black hair. Also note that certain breeds with squashed in faces, like Pugs and boxers, are particularly vulnerable to heat stroke because of their small nasal passages that make it harder for them to pant.
Your pets need for fresh water all the time. Make sure that the water cannot be overthrown and put it somewhere in the shade so it doesn't get too hot. All the times you can change it.
Don't leave your pet in the car. Cars too warm in no time and leaving your pet (or kid) can easily be fatal as their bodies tend to overheat faster than do adults. Leaving the window open a tiny bit won't help.
Make sure your pet has access to a shaded area or shelter that is not in direct sunlight. If you can, bring the dog inside the day to avoid the hottest hours.
If your pet stays in the air conditioning while you're at work, make sure that one of your neighbors, which is usually around has a key. Talk about what needs to be done in case there is a power outage or a fire alarm.
Fans are very popular with regular animals too. Although they are generally safe for Paws, your kittens need surveillance as some very adventurous may want to try to poke the fan from the back.
Don't let your pet run or exercise in the heat. If your pet is desperate to exercise despite the heat, turn on the sprayer for a couple of minutes or get one of these plastic toddler pool and fill it with 2-3 cm of water for some fun. Don't forget to change the pool water regularly and use a small amount (safe) only water.
Ice cubes or crushed ice can make good outdoor toys. Fill a bucket not to play, put some in the bowl of water or pool baby, etc.
Make sure that the dog cannot get in your regular pool while you're not there to supervise.
Comb/brush your pet a day and spoil them with extra time if you have bathroom.
Just try to walk your pet in the morning or evening. Be aware that your pet has legs very sensitive and can burn yourself on asphalt or sand.
If you take your pet outside during the day, don't forget that your pet can get sun burned. Nasi and gaskets are very vulnerable and could do with some pet sun screen. Some pets will do anything to get the Sun out and I don't see a hat to be a good alternative.
There is a good choice of pet products available, such as cooling cooling vests, waterbeds, bandannas, and much more. Your pet must be cooperative for them to be used successfully, but it may be appropriate to have a look at your local pet shop. The DIY cheap substitutes can be wet towels, wrapped ice packs etc.

Nele is a full-time home and Pet Sitters with 5 years experience in Sydney, Australia. Here you can contact via the website's house sitting by Nele. Nele is also the founder of easy house sitting, an online community where home owners, pet owners and pet sitters, House sitters may find each other.