Looking after your pet in extreme weather
We have hot summers and our winters can get quite cold. You can help your pets stay happy and healthy if the weather is at its extremes.
In summer
Australian summers can get very hot! You can help keep them cool and comfortable by following our handy tips.
Provide shelter
If you can, bring your pet inside during hot periods and provide them with their own space to cool down. If you cannot bring your pet inside, ensure they have adequate shade to escape the sun.
Keep them hydrated
Inside or out, ensure your pet has access to plenty of fresh cool water. Consider freezing their favourite treats in ice too – some pets love this idea!
Keep them cool
Many pets enjoy resting on a pet cooling mat or a tiled area and others, such as guinea pigs and rabbits love resting alongside a frozen ice pack or frozen water bottle on those long hot summer days. Paddle pools and sprinklers might also be a hit with some pooches and some birds love a light misting with a spray bottle to keep cool!
Check their diet
Ensure your pet’s diet is balanced and provide them with the right nutrients. For those animals that eat fruit and vegetables, ensure they are getting plenty, especially on hot days where foods with a high water content will help keep them hydrated. And as always, ensure they have access to fresh, clean water.
Adjust their physical activity
Take your walks during the cooler hours of the day such as first thing in the morning or in the evenings to avoid heat stress and burnt paws.
Grooming
Regular grooming will help your furry friends keep cool and as light as possible during the hot months. If you have a bird, giving them a light a spray every now and then or providing a bowl they can bathe in will have them feeling great! Other feathered friends such as chickens and quails love “dust baths” to keep themselves feeling and looking great - so providing an area of loose dirt they can dig and bathe in will satisfy their grooming needs.
By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy during the warmer months. Remember, pets rely on us to take care of them, so it’s important to be vigilant and attentive to their needs.
In winter
As winter sets in, it’s important to ensure that your pets are well taken care of.
Provide shelter
Although the weather may not be as severe as in other parts of the world, it can still get chilly in some regions of Australia. Make sure your pet has a warm and dry place to rest, away from any drafts. If your pet spends time outdoors, provide a shelter that is insulated and protected from the elements.
Keep them hydrated
Although pets may not feel as thirsty in the colder months, it is still important to ensure they have access to fresh water. Ensure their water bowl is not frozen and keep an eye on their water intake.
Keep them warm
Depending on where you live in Australia, temperatures can drop significantly during winter. To keep your pet warm, consider providing them with a cozy bed or blanket. If your pet has short hair or is sensitive to the cold, you may also want to invest in a jacket or sweater to keep them warm during walks.
Adjust their diet
In winter, your pet may burn more calories to stay warm. Check with your veterinarian to ensure that your pet is on an appropriate diet for the season. You may need to adjust their portions or switch to a food with a higher fat content to keep them healthy and well-nourished.
Watch for signs of illness: During the colder months, pets may be more susceptible to illnesses like colds and flu. Keep an eye out for symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and lethargy, and seek veterinary care if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
Keep them active
Just because it’s cold outside, it doesn’t mean that your pet should be stuck indoors all day. Exercise is important for both physical and mental health. If you can’t take your dog for a walk outside, consider playing games indoors or using a treadmill. For cats, create an indoor play area or play interactive games with them.
Grooming
Regular grooming can help keep your pet’s coat healthy and shiny during the winter. This can help with insulation and prevent matting. However, be careful not to over-bathe your pet as this can strip their coat of natural oils.
By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy during the colder months. Remember, pets rely on us to take care of them, so it’s important to be vigilant and attentive to their needs. With a little extra care, your pet can enjoy the winter months just as much as you do!