Four hot-day pet cooling mistakes to avoid

Understanding the Risks of Heat for Pets

Long, hot sunny days are not only a challenge for humans but also for our pets. While we can rely on a quick cold shower or a fan to feel better, many animals react negatively to such methods, which can sometimes be dangerous. Here are four things that might seem like good ideas for cooling down pets but could actually be deadly.

1. Avoid Using Ice Cubes in the Aquarium

Putting ice cubes in an aquarium is a big no-go when trying to cool down fish. Instead, ensure the aquarium isn’t exposed to direct heat. The water in small aquariums can become too warm during hot weather, causing fish to suffer from a lack of oxygen. Animal welfare specialist Nadia Wattad recommends avoiding sudden changes in water temperature. If the fish aren't jumping out, partially open the aquarium cover and turn off the heater and lights on warmer days. Perform a partial water change with cool water every day.

Garden ponds can also heat up, with temperatures over 30 degrees Celsius being problematic. Signs include greenish water or fish gasping for air. To help, use aerators, oxidizers, fountains, or fill the pond with cool water daily.

2. Don’t Place a Fan in Front of a Pet’s Cage

Using a fan in front of a pet's cage might seem like a good idea, but it can be harmful. Instead, place the enclosure in the shade. Small pets are very sensitive to drafts. Hutches, cool stone slabs, or damp towels placed inside or over the enclosure can provide relief. Stones or slabs can be cooled in the freezer beforehand.

Ice packs should never be placed in the enclosure as there is a risk of animals swallowing chemicals. Ensure your pets have enough water, as they tend to drink more in the heat. Check the water regularly, as it evaporates quickly.

3. Don’t Shear Your Dog in Summer

Shearing your dog in summer might seem like a good idea, but it's not recommended. Instead, take your dog for walks during cooler morning and evening hours. Make sure they avoid exertion and have access to cool water. Different breeds react differently to heat—pugs and French bulldogs, for example, are particularly sensitive.

A dog pool or a visit to a lake or stream can help them cool down. Never leave a dog alone in a car, even with windows rolled down. An open sunroof or window doesn’t provide adequate cooling, and the vehicle can become a death trap in minutes. Temperatures inside can rise to 50 degrees or higher, even on cloudy or muggy days.

4. Avoid Freezing-Cold Showers for Horses

On hot days, horses should be showered with lukewarm water instead of freezing-cold water. A rule of thumb is to cool the horse from the bottom up, starting with the legs, then the chest and neck, and finally the back, heart area, and belly. This helps maintain stable circulation. Use a sponge to wash the back, as the large back muscle can contract painfully in sensitive horses.

Spray the area around the kidneys with a soft stream of water. If the horse has kidney problems, use a sponge. Many horses enjoy getting into streams, ponds, or lakes to cool down.

Wattad also suggests adjusting husbandry and training. Postpone grazing until cooler nighttime hours and keep horses in stalls or paddocks during the day if the walls offer a more pleasant temperature. Train horses in the cooler morning or evening hours and provide constant access to fresh water.

Horses with unpigmented and hairless skin are at greater risk of sunburn. A fly mask or specially designed sun cream can protect them.

Recognizing the Signs of Overheating

The first signs of overheating in animals are heavy panting or restlessness. Act quickly by taking the animal out of the heat and placing wet towels on the limbs to cool it down. If symptoms of heat stroke appear, contact a vet immediately.

Life-threatening circulatory problems may show as severely reddened or very pale mucous membranes, shallow breathing, slowed reactions, and apathetic behavior. Other urgent warning signs include loss of balance, vomiting, and unconsciousness.