Is Your Pet Summer Ready? Essential Products for the Australian Heat

The Australian summer brings soaring temperatures, sunny days, and the promise of outdoor adventures. While we love soaking up the summer vibes, it’s essential to remember that the heat can pose serious challenges for our pets. Ensuring they’re ready for the season means keeping them comfortable, safe, and healthy. Here’s a guide to the essential products every pet owner should have to prepare their furry friends for the Australian summer.

Just like humans, pets can be affected by harmful UV rays, especially those with short coats  or areas of exposed skin like the nose, ears, and belly. Prolonged sun exposure can cause painful burns and increase the risk of skin cancer. Protecting your pet is especially important during outdoor activities or if they enjoy lounging in the sun.

• Pet-Safe Sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for pets, as human sunscreens often contain zinc oxide or other harmful chemicals. Apply to exposed areas, particularly the nose and ears.

• Protective Gear: Lightweight cooling vests or sun shirts can provide extra coverage while keeping your pet cool. Hats designed for pets can also shield their eyes and face from direct sunlight.

Dehydration is one of the biggest risks for pets during summer. Pets can overheat quickly, and access to clean, fresh water is essential to keep them hydrated. Encouraging regular drinking can help prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure your pet stays comfortable even on the hottest days.

• Portable Water Bottles and Bowls: These are perfect for walks or outdoor adventures, making it easy to provide water wherever you go. Look for bottles with attached bowls or foldable designs for convenience.

• Water Fountains: At home, pet water fountains are a great way to keep water cool, fresh, and appealing. Many pets are naturally attracted to running water, which can encourage them to drink more.

High temperatures can make pets uncomfortable or even dangerously overheated. Providing cooling aids is a great way to help them stay comfortable and prevent overheating, especially during the peak summer heat.

• Cooling Mats: These mats are made with gel or other materials that absorb and dissipate heat. Place one in your pet’s favourite resting spot for instant relief.

• Cooling Bandanas: Soak a bandana in water and tie it around your pet’s neck to provide a refreshing, cooling effect. They’re lightweight and ideal for walks or playtime.

In summer, hot pavements, sand, and surfaces can be painful or even dangerous for pets’ paws. Additionally, the heat and dry air can cause paw pads to crack or become irritated. Proper care and protection are key to keeping their feet healthy.

• Paw Balm: Apply a soothing paw balm to protect your pet’s pads from hot surfaces and keep them moisturised. It’s especially helpful after walks on rough or heated ground.

• Booties: For extreme conditions, lightweight pet booties can shield your pet’s paws from hot pavement or sand, making summer walks safer and more comfortable.

Australian summers are prime time for fleas and ticks, with paralysis ticks posing a serious threat in many regions. These pests can cause severe itching, allergic reactions, and even life-threatening conditions like tick paralysis.

• Vet-Recommended Treatments: For effective, long-lasting prevention, use topical solutions, collars, or oral medications. If you’re unsure on what will suit your pet best, reach out to your vet for advice.

Fleas and ticks are more prevalent in certain regions, so it’s important to understand the risks in your area. For more information on flea, tick, and worm hotspots in Australia, check out our guide: Tick, Flea, and Worm Hotspots: Year-Round Parasite Prevention in Australia

Summer is a great time for road trips and outdoor adventures with your pets, but it’s important to ensure their comfort and safety during travel. Pets can quickly overheat in cars or outdoor spaces, so providing proper gear is a must.

• Car Restraints: Keep your pet secure with a pet car harness, crate, or car seat barrier. This not only ensures their safety but also prevents distractions while driving.

• Shade Covers or Tents: For picnics, beach trips, or camping, a portable pet tent or shade cover provides a cool retreat for your pet to relax out of direct sunlight.

Accidents and heat-related emergencies can happen quickly, so it’s best to be prepared. Having the right first aid supplies and knowing the signs of heat-related illness can make all the difference in protecting your pet’s health.

• First Aid Kit: Stock it with essentials like antiseptic wipes, bandages, tweezers (for ticks), and a pet-safe thermometer. Add a guide to basic first aid procedures for reference.

• Emergency Cooling Solutions: Keep items like a spray bottle for misting your pet, cooling towels, or ice packs on hand. These can help reduce body temperature in an emergency.

• Know the Signs of Heatstroke: Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse. Gradually cool your pet with water and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect heatstroke.

The Australian summer can be tough on pets, but with the right preparations and products, you can help them enjoy the season safely and comfortably. Remember to prioritise hydration, cooling, and protection from parasites and the sun. Regular vet check-ups can provide personalised advice and keep your pet in peak health all summer long.

This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe