Updated on | by Critter Nets - Blogs
How to Keep Your Pet Cool and Comfortable with a Pet Sitter in Summer
Summer is a season of sunshine, vacations, and outdoor fun—but for our pets, the heat can quickly become dangerous. Whether you're away on holiday or working long hours, hiring a pet sitter during the warmer months can be a smart move—if they’re well-prepared to keep your furry friend safe and cool.
In this blog, we’ll explore essential tips to ensure your pet stays comfortable, hydrated, and happy with a sitter during the hot summer season.
Understanding the Risks of Summer Heat for Pets
Pets are more sensitive to heat than we often realize. Dogs and cats can't sweat like humans, and they rely mostly on panting or limited areas (like their paws) to cool off. Without proper care, pets can quickly suffer from:
- Dehydration
- Heatstroke
- Burned paw pads
- Lethargy or nausea
Certain pets are at even greater risk, including flat-faced breeds (like Pugs or Persians), older animals, overweight pets, or those with medical conditions.
Step 1: Choose a Pet Sitter Who Understands Summer Safety
The first step to summer pet comfort is choosing the right sitter. Make sure your sitter is experienced in seasonal pet care and can handle hot weather situations calmly and responsibly.
Questions to Ask:
- How do you handle pets during extreme heat
- Are you familiar with signs of heatstroke
- Do you adjust walk times or outdoor play based on temperature
A good sitter will already have a summer routine planned for walks, hydration, and indoor enrichment.
Step 2: Emphasize Hydration, Hydration, Hydration
Hydration is critical in summer. Your sitter should check and refill your pet’s water bowl multiple times a day.
What to Provide:
- Multiple water bowls in different rooms
- A pet water fountain for fresh, filtered flow
- Ice cubes or frozen treats (like watermelon for dogs—no seeds!)
Pro Tip: Leave written instructions for how often to change water and where to find backup bowls.
Step 3: Maintain a Cool Environment
Even if you're running the AC or fans, it’s important that your sitter knows how to keep the home cool during peak heat hours.
Temperature Tips:
- Use ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate air
- Keep curtains/blinds closed during the day
- Set AC to stay on between 22–25°C (72–77°F)
- Never leave pets outdoors or in enclosed patios
Also, make sure your sitter knows how to monitor for overheating signs like heavy panting, drooling, or restlessness.
Step 4: Modify Walk and Play Times
Your sitter should avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day—typically between 11 AM and 4 PM.
Better Timing:
- Early morning (before 9 AM)
- Late evening (after 6 PM)
Have them test pavement with the “7-second rule”: If they can’t keep their hand on the surface for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
Tip: Leave booties or paw balm if you use them for hot pavement.
Step 5: Create Cool Zones Around the House
Designate safe and cool areas inside the home for your pet to relax during the hottest hours.
What to Include:
- Cooling mats or gel pads
- Fans or AC units in rooms they prefer
- Elevated pet beds to promote air flow
- Frozen toys or treats (like a peanut butter-filled Kong frozen overnight)
Ask your sitter to rotate enrichment toys to keep your pet mentally stimulated and physically relaxed.
Step 6: Summer Grooming and Coat Care
A matted coat can trap heat. Talk to your groomer about a summer trim suitable for your pet’s breed. But beware—never shave double-coated dogs, as this can damage their natural insulation.
Your sitter should also:
- Brush regularly to remove dead fur
- Check for fleas or ticks after outdoor time
- Wipe down paws and belly after walks
Grooming can keep your pet cleaner, cooler, and more comfortable.
Step 7: Keep Cats Cool and Stress-Free
Cats love sunbathing—but too much heat can be dangerous. Ask your sitter to:
- Limit access to windowsills during peak heat
- Provide cool tile or shaded spots to rest
- Place ice cubes in their water dish
- Use toys like feather wands to avoid overexertion
And don’t forget to leave a scratching post or cardboard box for enrichment without overheating.
Step 8: Prepare an Emergency Plan
If a summer storm knocks out power or your area faces a heatwave, your sitter should know what to do and who to call.
Include in Your Instructions:
- Vet and emergency clinic contact info
- Back-up air conditioning instructions or contacts
- Nearest pet-friendly cafe, shop, or cooling center (if needed)
- Signs of heatstroke and your emergency response preferences
Safety first—always.
Bonus Tip: Leave Summer Supplies Handy
Before leaving, double-check that all summer essentials are stocked and visible.
Summer Essentials:
- Pet sunscreen (for light-colored or hairless pets)
- Extra towels or cooling mats
- Water bottles and travel bowls
- Summer-safe treats (no chocolate or sugary snacks)
Your sitter should have easy access to everything they need to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Conclusion: Summer Comfort Starts with Smart Pet Sitting
With the right preparation and a knowledgeable sitter, your pet can enjoy summer as much as you do—even if you're not around. From hydration and shade to cool playtimes and grooming, these small touches make a big difference in your pet’s comfort and health.
Let your pet enjoy the lazy days of summer safely and stress-free, knowing their sitter has it all under control.
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