Aussie summers are hard on dogs. They can't sweat like we do: they cool down mainly by panting and through the pads of their feet, so on a 35-degree day they can overheat far faster than you might think. Here's how to keep your dog safe and comfortable when the heat hits.
1. Walk early or late, and check the pavement
Skip the midday walk. Go out at sunrise or after sunset when the ground has cooled. Before you head off, put the back of your hand on the footpath for 7 seconds: if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws. Stick to grass and shade where you can.
2. Shade and fresh water, all day
Make sure your dog always has shade that moves with the sun and plenty of fresh, cool water. Put out more than one bowl in case one gets tipped over, and keep them out of direct sun. A few ice cubes in the bowl are fine.
3. Never leave a dog in a parked car
Not even for five minutes with the windows down. On a warm day the inside of a car heats up dangerously fast, even in the shade.
4. Give them a cool place to lie down
Dogs naturally look for a cool spot: the laundry tiles, the bathroom floor, a shady patch of dirt. Help them out with a breathable bed instead of a thick, fluffy one that traps heat. A raised or mesh pet cooling mat lets body heat escape, and needs no water, gel or power.
5. Wet them down (the right way)
A paddling pool in the shade, a gentle hose-down or a damp towel on their belly and paws can help. Use cool water, not ice-cold, and let them choose how much they want.
6. Keep play low-key
Save fetch and running for the cool of the evening. On hot days, swap physical exercise for brain games: sniffing games, treat puzzles or a frozen treat from the freezer.
7. Know which dogs are most at risk
Flat-faced breeds (pugs, bulldogs, French bulldogs), older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs and dogs with thick coats struggle more in the heat. Keep a closer eye on them.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs
Watch for heavy panting that won't settle, excessive drooling, bright red or pale gums, weakness or stumbling, vomiting or diarrhoea, and collapse. If you see these signs, move your dog into the shade, wet them with cool (not ice-cold) water, offer small amounts of water and call your vet straight away. Heatstroke is an emergency.
Helpful gear: the IcyMate Pet Cooling Mat comes in 3 sizes, from cats and small dogs up to larger breeds. Browse our pet cooling range.
This guide is general information. If you're worried about your pet's health, talk to your vet.