With the extreme temperature rise, summers in the UAE can be challenging for not only ourselves but our pets as well. The extremely high summer temperatures can be not only uncomfortable for our fur-babies, but also quite dangerous. In this article, we will explore different methods which you can use to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the summer season in the UAE, as well as suggest some products that will be able to help cool your pets down. With summer fast approaching, these tips will help your pet stay cool and comfortable during the summer season. 

Keep Them Hydrated

The best way to help your pet “beat the heat” is to have water available for them at all times. Make sure to have multiple bowls of water, or a fountain, around your house or apartment that they can access easily. For dogs, when walking them, you should always carry a portable travel bowl with you so that they can access water while out in the heat. We specifically recommend using the All For Paws Chill Out Bowl which you can pop in the freezer, and the gel inside the bowl itself will keep your pets water cool during the day. 

Use Our Cooling Products

We carry a range of products that your pet can benefit from using during summer. the Ruffwear Jet Stream Dog Cooling Vest is made with three layers that will help keep your dog cool during warm temperatures, the outer layer reflects heat and facilitates evaporation, the middle layer absorbs and stores water for evaporation, and the inner layer transfers cooling to your dog's skin. These vests are available in six sizes and two colors and are ideal for daily walks. 

If you’re looking for a cool spot for your pet to “chill out” then we’d recommend using the All For Paws Chill Out Mat, which is made using a cooling gel that cools your pet down as they lay on the mat. 

Limit Their Time Outside

With the extreme heat during UAE summers, it would be more beneficial for your pet’s safety and comfort to limit outdoor activities as well as their time outside during the hotter parts of the day. Don’t leave your pet outdoors unsupervised, and ensure that they’re not locked outside as the heat can be dangerous for their health. 

During dog walks, avoid midday walks while the sun is high. Aim for walks before the sun rises and after the sun sets. If you are walking them while the sun is up, stick to shaded and grassy areas, not only to avoid heatstroke, but also to protect their paws from burning pavements. All For Paws Outdoor Dog Shoes will also help keep your pets paws from burning if the pavement is hot. 

Some pets can also get sunburnt if they have light coloured fur, make sure that if you do take them out while the sun is high, that they’re not in direct sunlight for too long, and have access to shaded areas. 

Keep Your Home Cool

If your pet’s outdoor time has been limited, you’ll need to keep your home cool to keep them comfortable. During the day, keep the air conditioner on in a designated room for your pets, also ensure that they have a cool spot away from the sunlight that they can relax in. 

Keep Long Hair Trimmed

If you have a furry friend that's extra furry, make sure they receive regular haircuts during the summer so that they feel cooler. Don't cut their hair too short though, as exposed skin may be prone to sunburn or irritations. 

If you're looking to have your pets hair trimmed with additonal grooming, we definitely recommend taking a look at our Mobile Grooming Packages, to have your pets groomed at your doorstep!

Don’t Leave Your Pet In A Locked Car Or Hot Area

It's never safe to leave your pet in a hot car, even for a few minutes. The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, even with the windows cracked open. This can lead to heatstroke, dehydration, and even death. At the same time, don’t leave dogs tied up outside if you’re at the store or running errands. If you need to run errands, don’t do it during dog walks, or take your dog along with you, instead, leave your dog at home where they have access to the air conditioning and water, where it’s more comfortable and safer for them. 

Watch Out For Signs Of Dehydration & Heatstroke

With the high temperatures of UAE summers comes the risk of pet dehydration and heatstroke. If your pet has been exposed to the heat for too long you’ll need to look out for these symptoms: 

Dehydration symptoms include dry mouth, sunken eyes, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Your pet will need access to plenty of fresh, cold water to combat this. In extreme cases, you’ll need to take your pet to the vet to ensure that they’re safely taken care of, and that there’s no risk of your pet’s symptoms getting worse. 

Heatstroke symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and your pet collapsing. In this case the best thing to do is take your pet to the vet as soon as you can to have them treated. 

With summer in the UAE being so hot, it’s always best to be prepared for the heat when you have furry family members. Have plenty of water around, keep your home cool, keep your pet indoors during the hottest parts of the day, and keep them comfortable with our range of cooling products! By following this guide, your pet will have a happy and safe summer ahead!