Most people can't wait for summer and all of the fun that it brings.

However, if you are a pet parent then there are certain things that you need to be prepared for and one of the most important things to do is keeping your pet cool. Some animals can tolerate the heat better than others, but all are at risk of dehydration and heatstroke if they aren't properly cared for.

Here are five of our best tips on how to keep your pet cool this summer.

Keep Your Pet inside during the Hottest Part of the Day

It may sound obvious, but it is something that many owners overlook. The sun is at its highest and the rays their strongest during the middle part of the day. This also makes the hours of 10 am till around 3 pm the hottest part of the day. During this time, it will be very beneficial to your pet if you keep him inside, or at least in the shade. If he usually likes to roam or you need to take him for a walk, do this early in the morning or once the sun has set. This is especially important for his paws which could be burnt by standing on the ground during the hottest part of the day.

Don't Take Your Pet Out on Car Journeys Unless It Is Essential

Your pet might ordinarily love a trip out in the car with you, but unless you can take him into wherever you are traveling to, don't even think about taking him with you. Many people underestimate just how hot it can get inside a vehicle, even when it doesn't seem particularly hot outside. Parking in the shade or cracking a window doesn't make any difference either. Leaving a pet unattended in a car is a criminal offense in many states for a good reason. Leave him at home where it is cool, comfortable, and safe.

Give Him Ice Water

Access to plenty of fresh, cool water is essential for your pet, especially when the higher temperatures hit. One of the best ways to keep your furry pal cool and comfortable is to pop a few ice cubes into his water dish every time you top it up. Ice pop treats are also very popular amongst pets, particularly dogs, during the summer months. You can blend up some of his favorite treats and freeze them, giving him a chance to have a tasty and cooling snack.

Give Him a Cool Escape

Some rooms in the house are naturally cooler than others and it is helpful if you can make these locations accessible to your pet when it gets hot outside. Tiled rooms such as the kitchen and bathroom are especially good as the tiles remain fairly cool if he wishes to lie on them. Make sure the room has good ventilation, use a fan or air conditioning unit, or invest in a cooling mat for him to lie on. Put a bowl of fresh, cool water in there with him so that he doesn't have to travel far for a drink.

Encourage Him to Take a Dip

A short dip in some cool water is one of the best ways to keep your pet comfortable this summer. If you don't have a pool in your yard, fill up a paddling pool or a large container with water instead. Alternatively, consider popping your pet in the shower or using the hose to cool him down. If you are heading out on a walk, there is nothing wrong with him taking a swim in the sea or having a paddle in the water, but if he isn't a strong swimmer it is advisable to consider a life preserver or jacket for him.

Want more tips on how to keep your pet cool this summer? Contact our experienced veterinary team at Melton Veterinary Hospital in Bastrop, LA, and call us today at (318) 283-0656 for more advice and support.