How to keep your pets safe and cool during Spain's summer heat waves

With record temperatures on the rise, simple steps can help protect your dogs and cats from heat stroke

As the mercury rises across Spain and more heat waves hit the country each summer, many of us are taking shelter indoors with fans and air conditioning on full blast. But while we’re doing our best to stay cool, it’s easy to forget that our pets are struggling too and they can’t always tell us when something’s wrong. Heat stroke can affect both dogs and cats in a matter of minutes, and unlike us, they can’t cool down as easily.

Why pets struggle in the heat

Signs of heat stroke in dogs and cats

• Heavy panting
• Red gums or mouth
• Fast heart rate
• Feverish body temperature
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Staggering or confusion
• Weakness or collapse

Simple steps to keep pets safe

• Never leave pets in the car – even for a short time. Temperatures can rise by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes, even with the window open.
• Provide constant shade and fresh water – especially if your pet is outside. Refresh their water regularly, and avoid using ice-cold water, which can shock their system.
• Avoid walking during the hottest part of the day – usually between 12 and 6pm. The ground can burn their paws. Try using the back of your hand: if you can't hold it on the pavement for five seconds, it's too hot.
• Use cooling aids – such as damp towels, cooling mats. If you’ve got a garden or balcony, a shallow paddling pool can be a great way for dogs to cool off. For cats, gently wiping their paws or belly with a wet cloth, or a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel for them to lie near can help.
• Keep indoor areas ventilated – open the windows if there is a cool breeze and if not, a well placed fan is just as effective, and cheaper, than the air-con blasting.

At the end of the day, keeping pets safe in the summer heat comes down to paying attention and taking a few thoughtful precautions. They rely on us to notice when they’re uncomfortable, and a little care goes a long way in making sure they stay happy and healthy, even when the temperatures soar.