With a heat advisory now in effect for the Miami Valley and temperatures expected to climb into the upper 90s, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton is encouraging pet and animal owners to take steps to keep their animals cool and comfortable. High heat and humidity can be harmful to animals, especially without the right care.
“Hot weather can affect animals quickly,” said Brian Weltge, President & CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. “By staying mindful and making simple adjustments, we can help our pets stay healthy during the warmer days ahead.”
Below are helpful tips to keep pets safe and comfortable while temperatures remain high:
Keep Water Accessible
Make sure pets always have access to fresh, cool water. Proper hydration helps them regulate their body temperature and avoid overheating.
Sun Protection for Pets
Light-colored or short-haired animals can be sensitive to the sun, especially on areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Talk to your vet about using pet-safe sunscreen if needed.
Know the Signs of Overheating
Watch for signs such as excessive panting, drooling, confusion, lethargy, vomiting, or unsteadiness. If these appear, move your pet to a shaded or cool space, offer water, and contact your veterinarian.
Avoid Hot Cars
Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly. Always leave pets at home if you can’t bring them inside with you.
Protect Their Paws
Pavement and sidewalks can get extremely hot. Test the surface with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet. Choose early morning or evening walks and consider protective booties.
Provide Shade and Airflow
When outside, make sure pets have access to shade and well-ventilated areas. Kiddie pools, misting fans, and cooling mats are great additions for pets that enjoy water or need extra cooling.
Supervise Water Play
Not all pets are strong swimmers. Always supervise them around pools, lakes, or ponds, and consider pet-safe ramps or barriers for safety.
Indoor Cooling for Cats and Small Animals
Cats may prefer staying inside but still need help staying cool. A damp towel, fan, or cooling mat can go a long way. Avoid warm, enclosed spaces.
Considerations for Birds and Small Mammals
Birds: Keep cages in shaded, well-ventilated areas. Light misting can help cool their feathers, but avoid direct sunlight near windows.
Small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets): These animals can become overheated quickly. Place a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel in their enclosure to give them a cool spot to rest.
Farm Animal Considerations
Farmers and rural animal owners should also take steps to ensure their animals stay comfortable during warm weather:
- Ventilation: Open barn windows and use fans to improve airflow.
- Hydration: Always provide clean, cool water throughout the day.
- Cooling Options: Misting systems, mud wallows, or shaded pools allow animals to regulate their temperature.
- Shade Access: Use trees or portable shelters to give animals a place to rest out of the sun.
Warm weather doesn’t have to mean discomfort for your pets. With a few adjustments and ongoing attention, you can help your animals stay safe and enjoy the season. A good rule of thumb: if you’re feeling hot, they likely are too.
