As the temperatures rise this summer, we’re here to ensure your pets stay the coolest in town. Our products are designed to give the extra touch of TLC that your pets need during the hot summer months. From excessive panting to lethargy, and even collapsing, symptoms of heat stress in pets can be alarming. However, with proper care and the right accessories, your pet can stay cool in style. In this blog we’ll give away our top tricks and secret hacks to keep your pet cool this summer.
So crack open a cold drink and let’s dive in!
1. Understanding Heat Stress In Pets
As pet parents, it’s important to stay sharp and look out for common signs of heat stress. Heat stress symptoms can include:
- Lethargy
- Excessive panting
- Seeking shade or pacing around
- Drooling
- Vomiting/diarrhoea
- Purple gums
- Redness of skin
- Collapsing
P.s. Keep an eye out for our flat-faced pals like Chow Chow’s, Pug’s and French Bulldog’s, who are extra sensitive to the heat due to their brachycephalic air syndrome- they sometimes struggle to catch a breath even at rest!
And, let’s not forget our bigger friends and elderly pets, who might struggle to lose heat efficiently due to their reduced cardiovascular and respiratory function. For these pets summer is the time for seeking shade, sipping on cool drinks and having plenty of belly rubs!
2. Monitoring and Managing Your Pet's Health In Summer
If you happen to spot any of the heat stroke signs listed above, it is time for some quick pet parent action! Start by removing your pet from the heat immediately. Serve up some fresh, cool water and hit paws on any physical activity. Apply cool water onto their fur and use a fanning technique to help maximize heat loss.
If things get worse or you suspect heat stroke, it's time to speed-dial the vet immediately. While you wait for the experts, a gentle hose-down with cool water can help, just make sure to avoid the face. Oh, and skip the soggy towel wrap; we’re all about keeping our pets cool without running the risk of trapping heat.
3. 5 Essential Tips To Keep Your Pet Cool
1. Opt for walks in the early morning or evening once the temperature has cooled down to avoid hot pavements and surfaces. If the temperature is above 20 degrees celsius, limit exercise altogether and let your dog rest in the shade.
2. Hydration is key, so always provide plenty of fresh water. You can even add in ice cubes for extra chill.
3. Never leave your pet unattended in a hot car- even for a moment! Excessive humidity, being in an enclosed space and a lack of water are all factors that can increase your pet’s chances of developing heat stroke.
4. Be prepared with the correct summer accessories to help keep your pet cool. We recommend having a portable water bowl on hand, as well as a cool resting spot for your pup.
5. It wouldn’t be a real summer hangout without a paddling pool and frozen treats! Just like us, our furry friends deserve to stay refreshed during the hottest days of the year. Paddling pools are a perfect way for your pup to splash around and cool down. Served up with frozen fruit and vegetables, your backyard will be the perfect summer hangout.
4. The Brooklyn's Summer Essentials For Pets
Although “dog summer essential’s” may spring to mind sunglasses and beach bags, we understand that dog owners are more interested in the practical items that can help keep your dog cool this summer. Check out our favorite essentials to have on hand this summer:
- A Portable Water Bowl- The Brooklyn Pet Hydrate ensures your pooch stays hydrated while out and about. With its 2-in-1 storage for water and treats and super lightweight designed, you’ll be sorted for those summer walks.
- A Cooling Bed - The Brooklyn Deep Sleep Pet Bed is designed to offer your dog an escape from the heat. It offers a comfortable spot for your dog to relax, made from breathable material to ensure your pup doesn't get too hot.
- A Doggy Paddling Pool- A doggy paddling pool is a great summer accessory to let your dog cool off, as well as providing hours of fun and bonding time in the garden. Although we can’t guarantee that your dog won’t boisterously splash around, at least their summer won’t be spent inside with the blaring air-con!
5. Outdoor Safety and Comfort In Pets
When taking your pup for summer walks, safety should be top priority. Stick to these tips and your dog will stay cool and comfortable all season long.
1. Stick to grassy, shaded areas to avoid heat stroke and avoid walking on the pavement to protect sensitive paws.
2. Opt for early morning or evening walks to allow the temperature to have simmered down.
3. Bring a portable water bowl to keep your pup hydrated on the go.
4. Hang out in the shade to bond with your dog while avoiding the heat.
Here are some additional safe and enjoyable activities for your pets:
- Swimming
- Early morning or evening walks
- Hanging out in the shade
- Sprinkler or paddling pool activity
- Frozen dog treats
- Enjoy a picnic
6. The Brooklyn's Commitment To Your Pet's Summer Comfort
So there we have it guys! Now you can soak up the sun, play in the park and take long naps in the shade knowing that you’re fully prepared for the long summer months. While you’re here, be sure to check out the Brooklyn Pet Hydrate, perfect for quenching your pups thirst on-the-go and our Brooklyn Deep Sleep Pet Bed, for those lazy summer afternoon naps, your pup will be living the high life all year round.
