As summer rolls in, Dubai and Abu Dhabi begin to buzz with life. Families flock to beaches. Tourists soak in the golden sun. The vibrant energy of the UAE’s summer season is hard to resist.
But amid all this excitement, it’s easy to forget that our pets experience summer differently. While we escape into air-conditioned cafés or sip on iced drinks, our furry companions face a season that can be uncomfortable and even dangerous.
The intense heat, scorching pavements, and high humidity can take a toll on pets. Unlike us, they can’t shed a few layers or grab an ice-cold smoothie. Their comfort and safety depend entirely on how we care for them.
That’s why pet owners must be proactive and prepare for pet grooming in Abu Dhabi’s intense weather.
The good news is that you can keep your pets comfortable, cool, and safe with a few intentional habits and thoughtful routines. Below are 13 essential summer pet care tips every cat and dog owner should know.
1. Keep Fresh, Cool Water Accessible at All Times
Water is the foundation of summer pet care. Hydration helps regulate body temperature and prevents heat exhaustion.
Make sure your pet has access to clean, cool water in multiple areas of your home. Place bowls in shaded spots to keep them cooler for longer. When outdoors, bring a portable bowl and refill it frequently.
Consider using ceramic or stainless steel bowls, which tend to stay cooler than plastic ones. Adding a few ice cubes can also be a simple way to keep the temperature down.
2. Avoid Walks During Peak Heat Hours
Dubai’s midday pavement can feel like a stovetop. Walking your dog between 11 AM and 4 PM puts them at serious risk of paw pad burns. Their paws are incredibly sensitive and can easily be injured by hot surfaces.
Choose early morning or post-sunset hours for walks. Always test the ground with the back of your hand for at least seven seconds before stepping out. In addition, keep the walk shorter than usual and always carry water.
3. Provide a Shady Resting Spot Indoors and Outdoors
Shade is important for the comfort and protection of your pet. Indoors, move pet beds and mats away from sunny windows. Consider setting up a cooling mat or fan near their resting area.
Outdoors, avoid closed spaces like dog houses, which can trap heat. Instead, create airflow with a canopy, garden umbrella, or a ventilated tent. If your garden lacks natural shade, a large tarp can work wonders.
These simple steps ensure your pet has a safe spot to combat the sun’s intense heat.
4. Limit Outdoor Playtime
Dogs, in particular, often don’t realize when they’re pushing themselves too far. High-energy outdoor play can lead to overheating in minutes.
Keep outdoor play sessions brief and always supervised. Bring them indoors the moment you notice fatigue or heavy panting. Alternate playtime with rest periods in the shade and offer treats to encourage hydration.
On extremely hot days, swap outdoor games with indoor puzzles or enrichment toys.
5. Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car
Even a short stop at a petrol station can be fatal if you leave your pet inside the car. Temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise to lethal levels in under 10 minutes. Rolling down the windows slightly does not offer adequate ventilation.
If your plans involve stops where pets cannot join you, leave them at home in a climate-controlled environment. You can also avail yourself of a pet taxi in Abu Dhabi to ensure your pet travels comfortably.
6. Understand the Signs of Heat Fatigue and Heatstroke
Heatstroke can escalate quickly and is a medical emergency. Knowing the symptoms can make a life-saving difference.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs:
- Heavy, excessive panting
- Drooling or foamy saliva
- Red or pale gums
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Weakness, collapse, or glazed eyes
- Rapid heart rate and disorientation
Signs of heatstroke in cats:
- Rapid breathing or panting (which is unusual for cats)
- Drooling or open-mouth breathing
- Bright red tongue or pale gums
- Lethargy or hiding behaviour
- Vomiting or uncoordinated movements
- Collapse or seizures in extreme cases
If you notice these signs, immediately move your pet to a cooler area. Offer small sips of water and contact your vet without delay.
7. Groom Smartly for the Summer
A well-groomed pet handles heat better. However, shaving your pet’s coat is not always the right approach. Many dog and cat breeds rely on their fur to regulate temperature and protect from sunburn.
Instead of removing it, focus on regular brushing to eliminate mats, loose fur, and debris. This improves airflow to the skin and enhances natural cooling. A visit to a grooming professional can provide the safest trim based on breed and coat type.
If your pet is too tired to travel, you can always look for a suitable mobile pet groomer in Abu Dhabi. They can provide the same services in the comfort of your home.
8. Adjust Their Diet and Meal Schedule
Digestion generates heat, and some pets naturally eat less in summer. This is why it is better to offer meals during cooler times of the day.
Avoid feeding heavy or rich foods that could cause sluggishness. Instead, incorporate light, hydrating treats. Frozen vegetables, pet-safe fruits, and chilled wet food can be excellent options.
Always consult your vet before making major dietary changes, especially for senior pets or those with health conditions.
9. Use Cooling Products and DIY Solutions
There are many tools designed to help pets stay cool. Cooling mats and vests use materials that absorb body heat. You can also create simple DIY cooling pads by freezing a damp towel and laying it where your pet naps.
A shallow kiddie pool in a shaded yard can be fun for dogs that enjoy water. Be cautious with electric fans, and ensure cords are out of reach.
10. Protect Their Paws from Hot Surfaces
The ground heats up rapidly during summer afternoons. Pavement, tiles, and even artificial grass can reach painful temperatures. Use protective booties on walks or apply a pet-safe paw balm to add a barrier.
If your pet is limping, lifting paws, or avoiding walking, inspect their pads immediately. Cracks or blisters are signs of burns and require vet attention. Whenever possible, stick to grassy areas or carry small pets across hot surfaces.
11. Ensure Your Home Stays Cool When You’re Away
Air conditioning is a necessity in UAE summers. If you’re leaving home, keep your pet’s environment cool and safe. Close curtains to block sunlight and maintain airflow with fans or AC set to moderate levels.
Automatic timers can help regulate temperature even during power-saving periods.
Avoid leaving pets in enclosed balconies or rooms with no ventilation. Also, leave out extra water bowls in case one gets knocked over.
12. Limit High-Energy Activities
Running, jumping, and fetching are better suited to spring and fall. In summer, scale back on high-impact games that elevate heart rate and body temperature. If your dog insists on a bit of roughhousing, choose indoor spaces with proper ventilation.
Encourage mental stimulation instead by hiding treats, using puzzle feeders, or teaching new tricks.
For cats, a feather wand or treat trail is a great way to keep them engaged without overheating.
13. Schedule Regular Health Checks
Schedule a wellness exam with your veterinarian before the peak heat sets in. Early detection of dehydration, skin infections, or respiratory conditions can prevent larger problems.
Vets can also recommend flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives, as parasites thrive in warm weather. A seasonal checkup offers peace of mind and ensures your pet is ready for the long, hot months ahead.
Conclusion
Summer in the UAE can be a time of joy and beautiful memories. But for our pets, it also brings unique challenges that require awareness and action. By staying mindful of the heat, adjusting routines, and using the right tools, we can ensure our furry companions thrive in even the warmest months.
A little care goes a long way in helping them stay cool, healthy, and happy through the season. When they’re wagging their tails or purring contently under the shade, you’ll know it’s all been worth it.
Ensure Your Pet’s Safety and Health With The Groom Room
Groom Room is the leading pet salon offering professional and tailored pet grooming in Abu Dhabi for every pet. Our experts understand your pet and their unique needs in Abu Dhabi’s intense weather and offer effective solutions.
Bring your pet in today for a checkup and prepare yourself to make this summer a memorable one.
