Keep your pets safe in summer
For animals rising temperatures can be a challenge. Here are our top tips to help keep your pets safe and happy over the summer months.
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Before you get started
Why this is important
High temperatures can be life-threatening for pets. Heatstroke occurs when an animal can no longer lower its body temperature.
Beyond the heat, summer brings risks like Flystrike (where flies lay eggs on animals) and sunburn, which particularly affects pets with white or light-coloured fur. Taking simple preventative steps ensures your furry friends enjoy the season safely.
Summer safety guide
Instructions
1. Prepare the home environment
Start by ensuring your pet has constant access to shaded areas and fresh, cold water. You can drop ice cubes into their bowls or freeze a toy full of treats to keep them hydrated and entertained. If you have cats, always double-check sheds and greenhouses before locking them, as pets often seek shade in these dangerous "heat traps."
In the UK, when it’s just 22°C (76°F) outside, temperatures inside a car, conservatory, or shed can reach a fatal 47°C (117°F) within minutes.
2. Manage exercise and outdoor time
Switch your walking routine to the early morning or late evening when the air is cooler. Before heading out, perform the "pavement test" by touching the ground with your palm; if you cannot hold it there for five seconds, it is too hot for your dog's paws. Avoid strenuous activities like running or cycling with your dog during peak sun hours.
3. Apply physical cooling and protection
Apply pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas like the nose and ear tips, especially for white-coated animals. To lower their body temperature, provide damp towels for them to lie on or wrapped ice packs. For grooming, brush your pet regularly to thin out their undercoat and remove dead fur, which acts as unwanted insulation in the heat.
4. Monitor for emergency signs
Watch your pet closely for symptoms of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, excessive drooling, or uncoordinated movement. If your pet appears drowsy or begins to vomit, move them to a cool area and contact a veterinarian immediately. Additionally, check your pet’s rear end twice a day to prevent Flystrike during the warm months.
What you’ll need
A fresh water bowl refilled regularly
Ice cubes or frozen treats
Pet-safe sunscreen
Damp towels or ice packs
Grooming brush
did you know?
Dogs and cats lose heat differently than humans. Dogs primarily pant and sweat only through their paws, while cats seek shade and increase water intake. Both are at risk of heatstroke when temperatures rise.
More ways to help animals this summer
Create an RSPCA account to save ideas to your own dashboard, upload photos of your efforts and get exclusive certificates to celebrate your contribution.
