How to Keep Your Pets Cool in Sunny Singapore
Living in Singapore, our weather is relatively sunny throughout most of the year. Our constant tropical climate may be a bonus to some but also a dread for some! Especially when the heat goes up and won’t go down even if there is an air conditioner running, and of course if you’re a pawrent, you worry if your pets may overheat if they remain in a very hot environment since they have fur all over their body. However, this means more time for exercise for your pets as you head outdoors to cool off at the beach or in the pool.
Warm weather is also the time when ticks and fleas tend to strike on pets, which can irritate your pets and even cause problems for you as the owner. We’ve gathered some tips that’ll help your furry friends stay happy and comfortable in Singapore’s sunny weather.
Grooming all-year round
Being a responsible dog owner involves consistent quality of care, that's why we recommend grooming your dog all-year-round especially in the warm weather. Throughout the year, your dog will grow a new coat, shed their old coat – it never stops! Especially if you have a breed that is originally from a cold harsher climate such as a Husky or Samoyed. While it may sound like there’s no place for them here in sunny Singapore, they are known to be remarkably adaptable animals that can thrive in warmer climates like ours so long as they have the right care!
If your dog has very long fur or a double coat, it is like wearing a fur coat in 35 degree weather; therefore it is important that you keep his coat clear of mats and debris and combed often to keep it thin and comfortable for him. Long-haired dogs can quickly overheat in high temperatures. Many people don't realize that long-haired cats are also easily overheated, even if they stay indoors.
Long-haired Fur Grooming Tips:
- Regular brushing with a special comb designed to remove the shedding winter undercoat will make it easier for your dog to better regulate body temperature.
- Frequent brushing will thin the coat and help reduce and prevent matted fur. Brushing once-a-week will also reduce the size of the knots when they do occur .
- Regular clipping of long hair will help keep your dog cool. Long-haired cats can benefit from a summer clipping too. Be aware that longhaired breeds DO NOT need to be shaved to be comfortable in hot weather. The guard hairs on the top layer of fur which do not shed, are designed to protect the skin from the sun's rays.
- Keep in mind when clipping your pet, not to clip the hair too short. Breeds with longhaired coats could burn very easily.
- Trimming the long hair around paws and hindquarters is helpful for keeping those areas clean and free of foreign objects and feces.
Send Them To A Professional Groomer
If you’re unsure about how to groom and brush the fur of your particular dog breed, we highly recommend sending them to a professional! Doing it yourself could permanently damage the coat and its ability to insulate the animal in colder temperatures. A doggo’s fur coat has many layers to it and a shave down might not be the best idea. A professional will be well-equipped with the knowledge on the suitable method and length for each individual breed. For example, poodles and other breeds with short cuts can easily get sunburned.
Warm weather also means an increase in insect activity, an un-matted, shorter coat will help make it easier to find and treat insect bites and stings when they occur. Flea and tick activity may also increase as with more outdoor activities so it’s always a good idea to ensure your pets are getting their proper preventative! Another essential part of your pet’s body that is often missed out are their ears! Good ear care is a crucial element of dog care in warm weather. Humidity and heat can cause yeast and bacteria to grow inside them. If your dog loves to swim, they could be at even greater risk for ear infections.
By sending them to the pet salon, your groomer will be able to notice these problems as well as other underlying skin issues that you may not notice.
Keep Them Cool
On days that are hotter, it is best to keep your pets indoors with the air-conditioner switched on. Even on days that are not as hot, we recommend walking your doggos in the mornings or at night when the air and ground are much cooler. Hot surfaces can burn their paw pads while rough surfaces can cut them. You can protect them beforehand by moisturising them daily with paw wax or paw pad creams, or putting on booties when outside. If you must bring him/her out during the day, make sure to find shelter for your dog to rest or walk under as much as possible.
Do Not Leave Them Unattended in The Heat
In the recent years, we’ve heard of many horror stories of owners leaving their fur kids in an unattended car in the heat which later proved fatal. Leaving your pets in a heated area especially in a confined space is a big NO NO!
You might be thinking you’re just going to grab a couple of things and will probably take a short while, so it should all be fine. Wrong!Dogs in hot cars can suffer from potentially fatal heat stroke in as little as 15 minutes. They can overheat very quickly and struggle to cool themselves down, even when a window has been left open or water has been left in the car. In warm weather, the temperature inside a parked car can climb rapidly.
Unlike humans, dogs are unable to sweat. They rely mainly on their respiratory tract to dissipate heat. Dogs with more nasal surface area (think Greyhounds, German Shepherds and Labs) are more efficient at dispelling heat, while “smush faced” breeds (like Pugs, Bulldogs or Shih Tzus) are more prone to overheating due to shorter nasal passages. Regardless of breed, it is not ok to leave them unattended.
If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, dial 999.
Grooming At Pet Master
Now that you’ve understood how grooming plays a big part in beating the heat, it’s time to book a session with us at Pet Master! At Pet Master, we specialize in professional dog grooming and spa treatments. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to give your pup a makeover and a pleasant experience.
We will even transport our furry friends to and from their grooming appointment at no extra cost for those living in the Eastside, score! (Not to worry, transport can still be offered if you live in other regions of Singapore-charges will range from $10-$15). Click here to view our full grooming price list, or call 6970 7555 to schedule an appointment.
