How To Keep Your Pet Cool In Summer
Long Kiwi summers are perfect for beach days, backyard BBQs, and sunshine adventures. But while we’re soaking up rays, our furry friends may be feeling the heat for all the wrong reasons. From panting pooches to sunbathing cats, it’s important to know how to keep your pet cool in summer. At Petdirect, We Get Pet, which is why we’ve compiled these warm-weather tips to help your dog or cat stay safe, hydrated, and happy no matter how high the temperature climbs.
Provide Fresh, Cool Water At All Times
Just like us, pets need to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Make sure your dog or cat always has access to fresh, cool water. Position bowls in shady areas indoors and out. Consider using automatic water fountains which help keep water circulating and fresh, encouraging more frequent drinking.
Travelling or heading out for a walk? Pop a portable pet water bottle or travel bowl in your bag to keep your companion refreshed on the go.
Create Cool Zones Around The Home
Whether it’s a shady garden spot or the coolest room in the house, your pet needs a place to retreat from the heat. Indoors, keep blinds drawn and use fans or air conditioning if you can. Outdoors, ensure pets have access to shelter and shade — trees, verandas, or purpose-built shelters all work well.
Many pets love lounging on tile or concrete for a cool-down. You can also treat them to cooling mats or breathable summer bedding from our Summer Essentials range. These lift pets off hot floors and allow better airflow.
Keep Playtime Safe In The Heat
Exercise is still important, but during summer it’s all about timing. Avoid walks and play during peak heat hours (usually 11am–4pm). Instead, enjoy early morning or evening strolls. Always check the pavement — if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Why not turn playtime into a cooling activity? Try watery toys or fill an outdoor dog swimming pool with shallow water for supervised splash sessions. It's great enrichment and relief rolled into one!
Grooming Helps Beat The Heat
Excess fur can trap heat, so regular grooming is a must — especially for longhaired breeds. Brushing your pet helps remove excess hair and can prevent matting, which makes it harder for the skin to breathe. Explore our range of brushes, combs, and grooming tools designed to keep pets looking cool and feeling cooler.
Some pets may benefit from trims during summer, but always speak to a groomer before considering a major haircut. Cats, in particular, may need less grooming interference since their coat regulates their temperature naturally.
Watch For Signs Of Heat Stress
Heatstroke is a real risk for pets in NZ. Look out for these warning signs:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Wobbly legs or unsteadiness
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Vomiting or collapse
If you spot any of these signs, move your pet to a cool area, offer water, and contact your vet immediately.
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs, senior pets, puppies, and overweight animals are particularly vulnerable. Prevention is the best cure — avoid hot cars, provide shade, and make sure pets are never left unsupervised in summer heat.
Support Their Health From The Inside Out
During summer, your pet’s nutritional needs may shift slightly. Make sure they’re getting high-quality food and supporting nutrients to maintain energy and hydration levels. Wet food can help increase their moisture intake — browse our range of wet food for a tasty and hydrating boost.
You may also consider adding skin and coat health supplements to support their overall wellbeing during the warmer months.
Summer Safety Starts With You
Keeping your pet cool in summer isn’t about fancy gadgets — it’s about small, mindful changes to your routine and living environment. With just a few thoughtful tweaks — like staying hydrated, grooming regularly, and providing cool resting spots — you can ensure your furry sidekick enjoys summer as much as you do.
Browse our curated Summer Essentials guide to get your home (and pet) summer-ready. And don’t forget — as part of our Pet Perks programme, you’ll enjoy great rewards while shopping for your pet’s wellbeing.