How to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Summer: A Guide for UK Pet Owners

British summers may be mild compared to other countries, but they can still pose real risks to our pets. Whether you’re dealing with a surprise heatwave or a sticky, muggy afternoon, it’s important to adjust how you care for your animals to keep them safe, cool, and comfortable.

Here’s a no-nonsense guide to protecting your pets during the warmer months.

Photo by Sara Kurfeß on Unsplash

1. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car Ever

Even on a 21°C day, the inside of a parked car can soar to over 40°C within 30 minutes. Cracking a window does nothing. It’s not just dogs that are at risk; cats, rabbits, and other animals should never be left unattended in a vehicle.

What to do instead:
Leave them at home in a cool, well-ventilated space. If you’re out with your dog and need to pop into a shop, take someone with you who can stay outside with the dog in the shade.

2. Keep Exercise Short and Safe

Dogs might still need walks, but timing and intensity matter.

Tips:

• Walk early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.

• Stick to shaded paths and grassy areas.

• Always bring water and a collapsible bowl.

• Use the “five-second test”: Place your hand on the pavement. If it’s too hot for your hand after five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

3. Hydration is Non-Negotiable

Animals can become dehydrated quickly.

What to do:

• Keep water bowls full and clean.

• Leave multiple water sources in the home or garden.

• For cats and dogs, try adding ice cubes or a pet-safe ice treat.

• For small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs, check water bottles twice a day as spouts can get blocked.

4. Create Cool Zones Indoors

Not many UK homes have air con, but you can still keep things cool.

Quick wins:

• Use fans and keep curtains/blinds closed during the day.

• Place cool mats or damp towels for pets to lie on.

• Cool water bottles (wrapped in a towel) for small pets to snuggle up to.

• For dogs: pet-safe cooling vests or dampened T-shirts can help.

5. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke can be fatal, and it escalates quickly.

Symptoms to look for:

• Excessive panting

• Drooling or foaming

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Lethargy or collapse

If you spot any of these, move your pet to a cool area, offer water, and call a vet immediately. Don’t try to cool them too fast (e.g., with ice baths), as that can cause shock.

6. Protect Small Pets and Caged Animals

Rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, and ferrets are especially vulnerable.

How to help:

• Moving hutches out of direct sunlight, shade is essential.

• Ensure good airflow around cages or enclosures.

• Use ceramic tiles or chilled water bottles for them to lie near.

• Check for flystrike in rabbits daily, flies are more active in summer and can lay eggs on soiled fur.

Photo by Bonnie Kittle on Unsplash

7. Grooming Matters More Than You Think

Excess fur = trapped heat. Regular grooming helps animals regulate their body temperature.

Tips:

• Brush pets daily, especially long-haired breeds.

• Don’t shave double-coated dogs; it can damage their natural insulation and expose them to sunburn.

• Cats groom themselves, but older or long-haired cats may need a helping hand.

8. Be Wary of Pests and Parasites

Summer brings fleas, ticks, and flies, all of which can harm your pets.

Protective steps:

• Stay up to date on flea and tick prevention.

• Check dogs and cats for ticks after walks.

• Keep food bowls clean to avoid flies.

• Don’t leave faeces in hutches or runs, it’s a major attractant for flies and maggots.

9. Consider Pet-Safe Sunscreen

Pets with white or thin fur (especially on noses and ears) can get sunburnt.

Use a pet-safe, vet-approved sunscreen on vulnerable spots. Don’t use human sunscreen; ingredients like zinc oxide can be toxic to animals.

10. Be Ready for a UK Heatwave

They’re happening more often. When the Met Office issues a heat alert, have a plan:

• Avoid travelling with pets unless necessary.

• Keep them indoors during peak heat hours.

• Stock up on pet cooling gear (mats, water bottles, shade covers).

• Know where your local emergency vet is, just in case.

The UK summer might be brief, but it can still be brutal for our pets. Stay alert, stay prepared, and remember if you’re feeling hot and uncomfortable, they probably are too. A little effort goes a long way to keep your furry (or feathery) friends safe.

Got a tip that works for your pet in the summer? Share it in the comments below, let’s help each other out.