The summer period can be tyring for our four-legged companions. Dehydration, sunstroke… It is essential to ensure their well-being during periods of high temperatures. So, what are the main risks for our animals, and what behaviors should we adopt to remedy them?
The heat of bitumen
You probably already know this, but bitumen absorbs heat. In summer, when the thermometer reads 26°C, the bitumen can reach… 60°C! Animals can therefore burn their pads. It is therefore necessary to avoid asphalt and adapt walking paths (grass, forest, shaded paths, etc.). Furthermore, do not hesitate to control the heat of the floor with your hand. At the end of each walk, check your companion’s pads and do not hesitate to apply a moisturizing or protective balm (which can be found at your veterinarian).
Thermal shock
Animals are affected by temperature changes and are more sensitive to them than us humans. Therefore, to avoid subjecting your animal to high temperatures, the ideal is to walk it outside of the hottest hours: morning and evening.
It is also important to watch out for temperature differences. They shouldn’t be too brutal. For example, it is advisable not to turn the air conditioning on to maximum in the car or indoors. Or, you should cut it a few minutes before going out so that the difference is not too significant.
The dehydration
Water ad libitum ! In summer, you should encourage your pet to drink. To do this, increase the number of water bowls in your environment. It must always be fresh: do not hesitate to change the water regularly. For cats, it is advisable to have a water fountain, as they are more interested in moving water. Be careful though: the water must be fresh, that is to say clean! It should be lukewarm, not too cold, otherwise it could cause diarrhea.
Finally, we advise you to increase the proportion of mash in the diet, because it contains more water than kibble.
Sunstroke
One of the tips that is often repeated is not to leave your dog in the passenger compartment of your car, because the mercury increases exponentially in summer. Even if the windows are open and the vehicle is in the shade, this will not be enough to properly cool the interior. Also, don’t hesitate to bathe your dog (as long as he feels comfortable!) or wet his paws and nose to cool him down. You can also wet a cloth and pass it through its coat, especially if your pet does not like baths. If your pet bathes completely, remember to gradually wet it beforehand to avoid hydrocution. If he bathes in salt water, remember to rinse his coat so as not to create irritation.
Breathing difficulties
Dogs, in particular, sweat and cool down by panting. However, when it is very hot and the air is barely breathable, this can be more difficult. Dogs already having respiratory problems are particularly affected. We therefore advise avoiding physical activities with your dog: if he runs, your dog will need to cool down more. He will therefore pant more and will have more difficulty doing so in heat.
Ice cream: a bad idea
Many owners offer their pets a little ice cream in the summer. Although this seems like a good idea to refresh the animal, the lactose in ice cream is not tolerated by our companions!
Sources: France 3 Regions, SPA, RTL, RTBF, Wamiz