Endless summer! Enjoying the school holidays with your pet
The school holidays are almost here, which means lots of time for you and your family to enjoy hanging out together and spending some quality time making memories with your pets. This week we’re taking a look at some of the things you can do together, along with some tips for staying cool (or dry!) and getting the most out of each moment.
11 things to do with your pet during the school holidays
School holidays are the perfect time to bond with your pet and create lasting memories. Here are some fun and engaging activities your family and your pet can enjoy together:
- Visit a pet-friendly park: Find a local park where pets are welcome. Many parks have designated areas for dogs to run off the lead and play. You could even spend a day exploring and visiting different parks in your area, to find something new.
- Picnic outdoors: Pack a picnic and head to a pet-friendly area. Bring along some treats and toys for your pet to enjoy while you relax.
- Pet playdates: Arrange to meet up with friends who have pets. This can be a great way for your pet to socialise and burn off some energy whilst you have a good catch up.
- Go for a long walk: Explore local footbaths and bridleways. Make sure the path is pet-friendly and bring plenty of water for both of you.
- Beach trips: If you live near a beach that allows pets, a day by the sea can be a fun way for your pet to cool off and play in the sand.
- DIY pet toys and crafts: Spend a day indoors making toys or crafts for your pet. This can be a creative and rewarding way to keep them entertained.
- Training sessions: Use the extra time to teach your pet new tricks or reinforce good behaviour. Positive reinforcement and consistent practice can go a long way, especially with the whole family on board.
- Days out with your pet. Loads of local attractions are pet-friendly nowadays. Most National Trust properties let pets into their gardens and major visitor attractions like the Eden Project let pets into their grounds, so try finding some pet friendly days out near you and go and do something different together.
- Pet-friendly restaurants and cafes: Find local eateries that allow pets. Enjoy a meal out with your furry friend by your side. Or have a coffee on the pavement and watch the world go by together.
- Pet spa day: Pamper your pet with a grooming session at home or visit a professional groomer. A clean and well-groomed pet is a happy pet. You can get all the grooming supplies you need for a pamper day at home in our online shop.
- Enjoy some events: Summer is a great time for enjoying fetes, charity runs and novelty dog shows. These can be enjoyable outings for both you and your pet, so check you local listings to find out what is going on in your area.
How to help your pet beat the summer heat
Keeping your pet cool and comfortable during the hot summer months is crucial. Here are some tips to help your pet beat the heat:
- Hydration is key: Ensure your pet always has access to fresh, clean water. Consider adding ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it cool and remember to keep checking that it is topped up
- Provide shade: If your pet spends a lot of time outside, make sure they have a shaded area to retreat to. A shelter or a shady tree can provide much-needed relief from the sun.
- Avoid midday heat: Walk your pet early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid the midday heat to prevent overheating.
- Cool surfaces: Provide a cooling mat or a damp towel for your pet to lie on. This can help regulate their body temperature.
- Frozen treats: Offer your pet frozen treats, such as ice cubes made from pet-safe broth or frozen fruit slices. These can help cool them down from the inside.
- Indoor play: On very hot days, keep your pet indoors and engage them with indoor games and activities to keep them entertained and cool.
How to tell if it’s too hot outside for your pet
Determining whether it's too hot for your pet to be outside is essential for their safety. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Pavement test: Place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your pet's paws.
- Seeking shade: If your pet is constantly seeking out shade or cooler areas, it's a sign that they are trying to escape the heat.
- Lethargy: A hot environment can make your pet feel tired and sluggish. If your pet seems less energetic than usual, it might be due to the heat.
- Temperature check: Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If temperatures are above 29°C, it's best to limit your pet's time outside.
How to tell if your pet is overheating
Recognising the signs of overheating and taking immediate action can save your pet's life. Here’s how to tell if your pet is overheated and what to do:
Signs of overheating:
- Excessive Panting and Drooling: Rapid, heavy panting and thick, sticky saliva are signs of overheating.
- Red or pale gums: Check your pet's gums. If they are bright red or pale, it could indicate heatstroke.
- Weakness and staggering: An overheated pet may become weak, wobbly, or even collapse.
- Vomiting and diarrhoea: Overheating can cause gastrointestinal distress, leading to vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Rapid heartbeat: An elevated heart rate is another indicator of heat stress.
What to do if your pet is overheating
- Move to a cool area: Immediately take your pet to a shaded or air-conditioned area.
- Offer water: Provide small amounts of cool (not cold) water. Avoid letting your pet drink too much at once.
- Cool down: Use a cool, damp cloth to gently wipe your pet's body, especially around the neck, armpits, and paw pads. Avoid using ice or extremely cold water.
- Seek veterinary help: Contact your vet for further advice. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires professional attention.
Things to do with your pets and children if it's raining outside
Of course, let’s not forget this is the UK and much of the summer hols can be spent waiting for the rain to stop rather than worrying about too much sunshine!
Rainy days can be a great opportunity for indoor fun. Here are some activities you can do with your pets and children when the weather keeps you inside:
- Indoor obstacle course: Create a simple obstacle course using household items. This can be fun for both your pet and children to navigate.
- Interactive toys and games: Use puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys such as Kongs or snuffle mats to keep your pet engaged. Your children can help set up the toys and watch as your pet figures them out.
- Baking pet treats: Get the kids involved in making homemade pet treats. There are many simple recipes available online that are safe for pets.
- Story time: Have a cosy story time with your children and pet. Choose pet-themed books to make it even more enjoyable.
- Hide and Seek: Play a game of hide and seek with your pet and children. Take turns hiding and calling your pet to find you.
- Training and tricks: Teach your pet new tricks with the help of your children. Use positive reinforcement and make it a fun learning experience for everyone.
- Indoor exercise: Use toys like laser pointers or feather wands to help your pet get some exercise indoors. Your children can join in and play along.
- Crafts and art: Have a craft day where you make pet-themed art. Create paw print paintings or make a scrapbook of your pet’s photos.
- Watch a pet-themed movie: Snuggle up and watch a family-friendly movie featuring pets. This can be a relaxing way to spend a rainy day together.
With a little planning the summer holidays don’t have to be chaotic. You can do lots of fun activities together with your family and your pet, come rain or shine! If you’ve got any fun tips for spending the summer with your pet, we’d love to hear about it. Let us know in the comments section below!