Heat wave! How to protect your pets from the summer heat!

Heat wave! How to protect your pets from the summer heat!

When temperatures rise, extra caution is required for our four-legged and feathered friends. Pets need protection from the heat and cool places to retreat so as not to suffer from the extreme temperatures. Franziska Häberle from the Filderstadt Animal Welfare Association gives valuable tips on how pet owners can help their pets through the hot days. Not all animals can react equally well to their needs at high temperatures.

Particular attention should be paid to dogs, who often suffer more from the heat. Dog walks should be carried out on shady forest paths, as walking on asphalt can be dangerous for sensitive paws. The so-called “paw test” is a good idea: feel with your hand whether the floor is too hot. Water is an essential part of every walk - ideally in a foldable drinking bowl. It is important to avoid excessive demands and overheating; Slowly cooling the paws can work wonders here. According to Esslinger Zeitung it is also advisable if there are signs of overheating such as to act quickly if you notice heavy panting and a red tongue.

Tips for cats and small animals

Cats, on the other hand, seek cooler places when it is hot. Here, owners should ensure that their cats have access to tiles, cellars or shady rooms. Shallow water bowls and wet food can also help meet fluid needs. Particular caution is required when windows are tilted, as accidents can happen quickly.

Small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs are also at risk. Their cages should not be placed in direct sunlight or in winter gardens. Instead, it makes sense to provide cooling options such as clay tubes or frozen water bottles. Fresh water and vegetables should be offered several times a day. Transport in high heat should also be avoided in order to minimize stress effects on the animals.

Special needs of birds and reptiles

Birds kept indoors are particularly susceptible to heat. Their cages should be in shady places and good ventilation is essential. Bath bowls can provide welcome cooling. Anyone who owns reptiles must ensure that their terrariums provide warmth but do not get too hot. The retreat areas should be checked daily and shade and water points are also essential in the outdoor enclosure.

Aquarium fish are often the secret sources of danger. While they hardly show any symptoms, the aquarium should under no circumstances be left in the sun. Regular temperature checks and partial water changes with cool water can help protect the fish from overheating.

The list of heat prevention tips is long and ranges from blacking out windows to using fans to creative cooling methods. Paddling pools for dogs, moistened washcloths for cats and homemade ice cream treats can offer exciting incentives for all animals. There are a few things pet owners should think about when it comes to nutrition: Easily digestible and water-rich food, multiple water bowls in the room and sharing meals are crucial. These measures are particularly important for short-nosed breeds and older, overweight or sick animals, which are at higher risk of overheating. Alltagsfuchs adds that animal owners should always keep a close eye on their protégés in order to be able to help in a timely manner.