How to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Heat

If you’re reading this in late June/early July of 2021 and you’re anywhere in BC, Canada, you know that this is the hottest, longest heat wave EVER!

These prolonged heat episodes can be as dangerous to your pets as they are to you and it’s important to help your pet stay safe and comfortable.  Here are some tips not only for house pets but also for livestock and wild animals.

For your Dog: 

First, be aware of the signs of overheating.

It’s normal for your dog to pant when he’s hot, but it’s when he STOPS panting that you might have an issue. If your dog’s tongue is dry or they’re no longer salivating, those are signs they can’t cool down. If you notice your pet is behaving differently, (lethargy, for example) it could also be a warning sign.

So how can you help your pets?

• If you don’t have air-conditioning, fill 2-litre bottles with water and freeze them overnight. Put them near your pet’s bed with a towel over it so they can lean on it or just feel the cooling sensation emanating from it.
• Put some ice cubes in your pet’s water dish (but don’t actually freeze the water in the dish; it may be too cold)
• Use old t-shirts or rags to drench in water then drape over your pet.
• Avoid taking your pet for a walk on hot pavement.  Their feet, like yours, could burn! If you must spend time outdoors, try booties for your dog to protect his feet and avoid the hottest part of the day.
• Use a kiddie pool so that your pet can lay down in cool water to lower its core temperature
• Don’t feel bad if you can’t take your dog out for a full exercise session on hot days; the heat may reduce his energy and it’s ok to be lazy for a little while.
• Be aware of dogs left behind in cars and know the danger. Reacting immediately is vital. If you see a dog left alone in a car, call the SPCA or RCMP right away.

For livestock and outdoor pets:

The signs of overheating are lethargy and sunken eyes. Watch for these signs but follow these tips to avoid reaching that point.

• Ensure animals that are housed in barns or sheds have proper ventilation and air circulation.
• Provide shade to animals kept outside, if possible.
• Offer a continuous supply of cool, clean water.
• Consider increasing fiber in the diet and offering fewer grains
• Remember that high temperatures and dry conditions can often trigger wildfires. Be sure to have an evacuation plan in place.

For wild animals:

You may not realize it, but wildlife uses your yard regularly and if you can offer some resources during the heatwave, you’ll help them weather the heat too. Just about any water source in your yard will be used by animals so consider the following:

• If you have a pond make sure it has shallow edges so that wildlife can safely exit.
• Leave small, shallow dishes with freshwater around your property. You don’t want them to be too deep so that small animals don’t drown. Add some stones to each dish so that bees and insects have a place to perch and drink
• Refill the water regularly so it’s not stagnant

And remember that Blue Barn offers many cooling solutions for your pets.  Visit BlueBarn.Shop for cooling vests, beds, bowls, frozen treats and bones, and much more!