As temperatures rise and the days grow longer, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your pets safe, cool, and comfortable during the summer months. While we humans can escape the heat with air conditioning or a dip at the beach, our pets rely on us to help them stay healthy and protected from Australia’s harsh summer conditions. At Woonona Petfoods, we understand how important it is to prepare your pets for seasonal changes. From hydration and grooming to parasite protection and outdoor safety, here’s everything you need to know to help your furry, feathered, and scaly companions thrive this summer.
Hydration is key
One of the biggest risks to pets during summer is dehydration. Dogs, cats, birds, and even reptiles can quickly become overheated without access to adequate water. Ensure your pet always has clean, cool water available, both indoors and outdoors. Place multiple water bowls around your home and check them frequently, as water can evaporate faster in hot weather. For dogs who spend time outside, consider a heavy, non-tip bowl or a pet water fountain to keep water fresh and appealing.
Adding ice cubes to your pet’s water can also help keep it cool for longer. If you’re heading out for a walk or car trip, always bring a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl.
Grooming for the warmer months
Proper grooming helps your pet stay cool and comfortable. Dogs and cats with thick coats shed more during summer, so regular brushing helps remove loose fur and prevent overheating. Avoid shaving long-haired breeds completely, as their coats provide natural insulation from heat and sunburn. Instead, keep the fur trimmed to a manageable length and focus on removing mats or tangles.
If your pet enjoys swimming, rinse their coat after beach or pool play to remove salt, sand, and chlorine, which can irritate their skin. At Woonona Petfoods, we stock a range of grooming tools and products, including brushes, shampoos, and cooling sprays, to help keep your pets fresh and comfortable all summer long.
Protecting against parasites
Warm weather brings an increase in parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These pests can cause irritation and spread diseases, so prevention is essential. Regularly use a trusted flea and tick treatment suited to your pet’s species, size, and lifestyle. Check your pets (especially dogs) for ticks after outdoor activities, focusing on the ears, paws, and under the collar.
Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm, so ensure your dog or cat is on a year-round heartworm prevention program. Woonona Petfoods carries a wide selection of parasite control products, including spot-on treatments, chewables, sprays, and collars from leading brands. Our team can help you choose the right protection for your pet.
Beating the heat
Heatstroke is a serious risk for pets in summer. Dogs, in particular, can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans and can overheat quickly. Keep your pets indoors during the hottest part of the day and ensure they always have access to shade if outside. Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when the pavement is cooler, hot surfaces can burn paw pads. Provide cooling mats, damp towels, or frozen treats to help them cool down. Dogs also love cooling toys that can be soaked and frozen.
If your pet shows signs of heat stress, excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse, move them to a cool, shaded area immediately and contact your vet.
Safe summer exercise
Exercise is still important during summer, but it needs to be adapted to the weather. For dogs, opt for shorter, more frequent walks instead of one long session. Swimming is a great low-impact way to keep dogs active without overheating. Ensure your bird’s cage or your reptile’s enclosure isn’t placed in direct sunlight. Birds, especially, can suffer heat stress quickly, so provide shaded perches, good ventilation, and access to clean water for bathing.
Reptiles may need adjustments to their habitat lighting and temperature gradients during the warmer months. If you’re unsure, check that your heating setup allows your reptile to regulate its temperature safely without risk of overheating.
Summer nutrition and hydration boosters
Just like humans, pets may eat less in hot weather. Offer smaller, more frequent meals and ensure their diet remains balanced. For dogs and cats, chilled treats or frozen lick mats can be a fun way to keep them cool and hydrated. Birds benefit from fresh fruit and vegetables that provide extra water content, such as apple slices, berries, or cucumber. Always ensure these are safe for your bird species. At Woonona Petfoods, we stock a variety of nutritious summer-friendly foods and treats, including natural chews, cooling toys, and frozen pet-safe snacks.
Travelling with pets over summer
If you’re planning a holiday, make sure your pets are ready for travel. Whether they’re joining you on the trip or staying home, preparation is key. If travelling by car, ensure pets are safely secured in a crate or harness and never left in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a car can rise dangerously fast.
For pets staying home, ensure a reliable pet sitter or boarding service is arranged, and leave detailed instructions for feeding, medication, and care. You can find travel accessories such as water bottles, seatbelt clips, travel carriers, and calming products at Woonona Petfoods to help make summer adventures stress-free.
Watch for summer hazards
Australian summers can bring unique risks to pets. Watch for:
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Hot pavements and sand that can burn paws
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Stinging insects such as bees or wasps
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Snakes and ticks in bushy areas
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Saltwater ingestion after beach play
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Overexertion during hot weather
Supervising your pets outdoors and keeping a first aid kit handy can help you respond quickly if something happens.
Preparing your pet for summer means more than just managing the heat, it’s about keeping them healthy, happy, and safe throughout the season. With the right grooming, hydration, and preventive care, your pets can enjoy all the fun that summer brings without discomfort or risk. At Woonona Petfoods, we have everything you need to keep your pets cool and comfortable, from parasite protection and grooming products to cooling mats, travel accessories, and nutritious summer treats. Visit us in-store or online and let our team help you get summer-ready for your pets.
