Compared to us, our pets are less well-adapted to keeping cool and can only sweat via their pads! Instead, they rely on panting to get rid of their excess body heat, which is not always effective. Laying on cool surfaces, going for a swim, seeking shade or having access to a breeze, are other ways that can help our furry friends stay cool.

However, if your pet finds himself or herself in a situation where they don’t have access to any of the above, panting alone may not be effective enough to cool them down. This can result in their body temperature quickly soaring as their body overheats, causing heatstroke.

Sunbathing: During the summertime our sun-worshipping pets will relish the opportunity to sunbathe in the garden, stretching out in the middle of the lawn in the heat of the day or on top of a flat roof. However, if they spend too long in the sun or in the absence of a breeze they could be at risk of overheating.  

Conservatories: Many of our feline friends will enjoy nothing more than a catnap in the conservatory on a sunny day, but be careful as they can quickly heat up and transform into a greenhouse! So, always check that your sun-lounge or conservatory is pet-free before closing the door or going out for the day. 

 

Dark / thick coat: Pets with thick or dark coats or both are at higher risk of heatstroke, as their coats will soak up the heat like a sponge and hold onto it.

Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds: Are even more at risk of heatstroke as they are less well adapted to keeping themselves cool and don’t tolerate any heat well.

If you are concerned that your pet has developed heatstroke, take them to your vets immediately. In the interim, you can help cool your pet down by laying cool (avoid cold water as this can shock their body) wet towels over your pet’s body, belly and pads and by getting them into the shade or inside as soon as you can.