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Top Tips for a Pet-Safe Summer in New Zealand

Top Tips for a Pet-Safe Summer in New Zealand

Posted by Petdirect on 15th Jan 2025

Summer in New Zealand is the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy quality moments with your furry friends. To ensure your pets stay happy, healthy, and safe during the warmer months, we’ve rounded up some essential tips just for you.

1. Keep Your Pets Hydrated

Keeping your pets hydrated is key to their health and well-being, especially on hot days. Make sure they always have access to fresh, clean water. Cats, in particular, can be fussy about drinking water, but a water fountain can make a big difference. These fountains encourage hydration by offering a continuous flow of fresh water that’s hard to resist. 

2. Protect Against Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious risk for pets in summer. Always provide shaded areas and never leave your pets in parked cars—even for a quick errand. Temperatures inside a car can rise dangerously fast, putting your pet’s life in danger.

To help keep your pet cool, consider using cooling accessories like a pet cooling mat. These mats are designed to regulate your pet’s body temperature and are perfect for hot days indoors or outside.

3. Exercise Smart

Exercise is important year-round, but during summer, timing is everything. Avoid walking your dog during the hottest part of the day (10 am to 4 pm). Early morning or evening walks are cooler and safer. Remember, pavements can get extremely hot and may burn your pet’s paws. A quick hand test on the surface can help you decide if it’s safe. 

If you’re heading out, make sure your pet is comfortable and secure with a pet-specific harness. You can also protect your pet's feet on hot surfaces with walking boots.

4. Protect Them From the Sun

Just like us, pets can get sunburned, especially if they have light or thin fur. Use pet sun protection like pet-safe sunblock to vulnerable areas like noses and ears, or cover them with a pet Rashie Vest with SPF protection, and try to limit sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.

5. Stay on Top of Pests

Warmer weather means fleas, ticks, and other parasites are out in full force. Protect your pet with regular grooming and vet-recommended treatments to keep these pests at bay.

6. Supervise Water Fun

Many dogs love swimming, but not all are confident in water. Always supervise your pets around pools, lakes, or the ocean. For extra safety, invest in a dog life jacket to help your pet stay afloat and enjoy the water safely.

7. Adjust Their Diet

Summer can change your pet’s activity levels, so it’s a good idea to adjust their diet accordingly. Adding wet food to your pet’s diet is another excellent way to boost their water intake. Wet food contains high moisture content, which can help keep your pets hydrated, especially during warmer weather. Another option to boost hydration are food toppers. These not only add variety to your pet’s meals but can also encourage them to eat and stay hydrated during the heat. Totoniks is all about delivering superior hydration — perfect for fussy eaters, dogs with sensitive tummies, seniors, and active pups. Add some mealtime magic while supporting their hydration.

8. Prepare for Fireworks

Summer celebrations often bring fireworks, which can be stressful for pets. Create a safe, quiet space for them to retreat to during noisy events. Products like calming sprays or anxiety coat can help keep them relaxed.

Have the best summer yet!

Keeping your pets safe and comfortable during summer is all about preparation and care. With these tips and the right products, you can enjoy a fun, worry-free summer with your furry family members.

You can shop our range of summer essentials so you can adventure with your pet all season-long. 

Shop summer essentials