Keeping pets cool

On hot days, particularly over 30°C, pets need extra care to stay comfortable and safe.

Help them beat the heat:

• Ensure constant access to clean, cool water – place several bowls around in shaded areas and consider ice cubes to help with temperature.
• Provide plenty of shade and shelter from the sun and wind. Ensure any kennels or shelters are in a cool, shaded spot.
• Keep pets indoors during the hottest part of the day, and close blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight.
• Offer cool resting spots such as damp towels or a shallow paddle pool for dogs.
• Freeze large ice blocks (tip: use ice cream containers, or paper cups ) for dogs to lick.
• Never leave pets in cars. Temperatures inside a vehicle can double within minutes and be fatal.
• Avoid walks until after sunset – hot pavement can burn paws.
• On very hot days avoid over-exercising – most animals will prefer to rest.
• Remind children that pets may be tired or grumpy and need space.

Dogs

Dogs cool themselves by panting and through their paws, making them especially vulnerable to heat.

Short-nosed breeds, senior dogs, and those who are overweight or have breathing issues are at higher risk.

Watch for signs of heat stress:

• Restlessness or excessive panting
• Drooling or excessive salivation
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Weakness, staggering, or collapse
• Bright red, purple, or blue gums
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
  

If you notice these symptoms move your dog to a shaded area, offer small amounts of water and contact your vet immediately.

Cats

Cats usually tolerate warmth better than dogs but can still overheat quickly.

To help your cat stay cool:

• Keep them indoors during heatwaves.
• Provide cool surfaces or damp towels to rest on.
• Add ice cubes to their water bowl and ensure it’s always full.
  

If your cat begins to pant:

1. Wrap them gently in a cool, damp towel.
2. Keep them calm until breathing returns to normal.
3. Seek veterinary advice immediately.

Rabbits & Small Pets

Rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small pets are extremely sensitive to heat above 25 degrees and can suffer quickly.

Keep them safe by:

• Moving their hutch or cage to a cool, shaded, well-ventilated area.
• Bringing them indoors on very hot days.
• Freezing a bottle of water, wrapping it in a towel, and placing it where they can lie against it.
• Providing fresh, cool water at all times.

Adopting a pet in hot weather

Adoptions may close on high temperature days

Adopting in the heat requires a little extra planning to make sure your new family member gets home safely and comfortably.

• Use an air-conditioned vehicle for transport.
• Take them straight home to a cool, quiet space with air-conditioning or tiled floors.
• Don’t expect them to show their true personality right away – they may be hot or stressed.
• If you already have pets, delay introductions until the weather cools.
• Bring a well-ventilated carrier for cats – cardboard boxes can overheat.
• For the safety of the animals in our care, our team may make the decision to pause adoptions or Doggy Day Out when temperatures are too high.
  

When to seek help

If you suspect a pet has heat exhaustion or heatstroke, don’t wait. Move your pet to a cool area, offer water, and contact your vet immediately.

Quick action can save a life.