Summer Grooming Tips For Heat Protection
When the Aotearoa sun is sizzling, our pets feel it too. Whether you’re caring for a fluffy dog or a sleek-coated cat, summer grooming is key to keeping them cool, comfortable and healthy. With just a few seasonal grooming steps and the right tools, you can help your furry friend beat the heat. From brushing and baths to body trimming and paw care, these practical grooming tips are designed to protect your pet during our warmer months. At Petdirect, we get pet – and we’re here to guide every wag, purr and snooze under the sun.
Why Summer Grooming Matters
Just like us, pets can overheat in warm weather. Grooming helps your pet regulate their body temperature by removing excess fur, keeping their skin clean and preventing matting, which can trap heat and moisture. Grooming is also a perfect opportunity to check for fleas and ticks, which are more common in summer. With regular care and the right grooming routine, your pet can enjoy summer adventures itch-free, cool and comfortable.
Brush The Heat Away
Regular brushing is your first line of defence against summer discomfort. Brushing removes loose fur, prevents mats and promotes airflow through your pet’s coat – especially important for long-haired or double-coated breeds like the Samoyed or Ragdoll. Depending on your pet’s coat type, you might need a slicker brush, undercoat rake or grooming glove to do the job.
Explore our range of pet grooming tools to find the best brush for your buddy. Brushing is more than just practical – it’s also a lovely bonding moment and a chance to spot any skin issues early.
Trim With Care (But Not Too Much)
We know it might seem like a summer buzzcut is a good idea, but not all pets should have their fur clipped right down. That soft layer helps protect them from sunburn and overheating. Rather than shaving, a light trim can tidy things up while still shielding their skin from the elements.
For dogs, especially breeds like the Golden Retriever or Spoodle, trimming around the belly, ears and paws can help keep them fresh. Check out our selection of dog grooming tools to maintain their coat at home between professional grooms. Cats, while generally self-maintaining, benefit from gentle trimming if prone to matting – especially long-haired kitties.
Summer Baths Done Right
A good summer rinse can work wonders, especially if your dog loves the beach or bushwalks. Bathing helps rinse off salt, sand, pollen and loose fur – but be careful not to overdo it and strip their natural oils. Look for gentle pet shampoos designed for regular use, or choose a moisturising shampoo for cats if they need a freshen-up.
For pets prone to skin trouble, products from brands like Dermcare and smithandburton are popular picks. After a bath, make sure your pal is fully dry, especially in hard-to-reach spots behind ears, between toes or under collars.
Paw Pads & Sun Safety
Hot footpaths can burn sensitive paw pads. Keep nail and paw trims part of your summer routine and consider paw balms or protective socks if your pet walks on hot surfaces. Regularly inspect paws for signs of cracking or injury – especially after beach runs or river dips.
For sun-lovers, consider pet-safe sunscreen for sensitive areas like noses, bellies and ear tips – particularly for short-coated breeds and pale-skinned pets. Fancy a cool drink in the shade? Keep your pet hydrated with a pet water fountain that encourages more lapping and less lounging when it’s hot.
Heat Grooming Essentials
- Brush regularly with the right tool for your pet’s coat
- Keep up with mild trimming – but avoid close shaving
- Use pet-safe shampoo to bathe away summer grit
- Protect paws from hot surfaces and trim nails often
- Encourage hydration with accessible, fresh water
Need a one-stop solution? Our Summer Essentials collection is packed with pet-clever finds to help you groom smart and keep cool this season.
Final Sniffs & Summary
With a touch of grooming love, your cat or dog can enjoy a happy, healthy summer in New Zealand. Whether you're exploring local trails or lying low in the backyard, regular brushing, safe trimming and soothing hygiene care can make a big difference in warm-weather wellbeing.
Shop grooming essentials and seasonal must-haves at Petdirect – where we get pet. Plus, earn Airpoints and enjoy extra tail-wags with our Pet Perks loyalty programme.