Summer is not always an easy season for pets, especially during periods of extreme heat. By mid-July, temperatures can become particularly intense, and animals that spend too much time in the sun or in overheated spaces may quickly begin to suffer.

Heat can make pets uncomfortable, stressed and lethargic. It can also lead to serious health problems, including heatstroke, dehydration, skin irritation and burns on the paw pads from hot asphalt, sand or paving stones.

The responsibility for protecting them lies with us. Limiting their exposure to outdoor heat, keeping their living environment cool and making small changes to their daily routine can make a significant difference. Here are some of the most useful ways to help pets cope safely during a heatwave.

Keep fresh water available at all times

Hydration is essential on hot summer days. Make sure your pet’s water bowl is always filled with clean, cool water, and refresh it regularly. A pet water fountain can also be a useful option, as it keeps water circulating and available while you are away from home.

When going out for a walk, always take a portable water container with you, so your pet can drink during exercise, play or longer outings.

Never leave a pet alone in the car

A pet should never be left unattended in a parked car, not even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly, creating a serious risk of heatstroke.

Choose cooler times for walks

Avoid walking your pet during the hottest hours of the day. Early morning, late afternoon and evening are safer choices, when the sun is lower and the temperature is more manageable.

Where possible, choose grass rather than asphalt, sand or paving. Hot surfaces can dry out or burn the paw pads. Protective paw balm or special pet shoes can offer extra protection before a walk, especially in urban areas.

Create a cool, shaded place indoors

At home, make sure your pet has access to a cool, shaded spot where it can rest away from direct sunlight. Good ventilation, closed shutters during the hottest hours and cooling mats can all help create a more comfortable environment.

Do not forget stray animals

Stray animals face the heat without the protection of a home, and even small gestures can help them survive difficult days.

Leave a bowl of cool water outside your home, shop or building entrance, and refresh it whenever possible. Adding a few ice cubes can help keep the water cool for longer.

A bowl of dry food can also help strays maintain their strength and energy. If possible, place food and water in a shaded area, away from direct sun.

You can also create a simple shaded corner using a cardboard box, umbrella or other shelter, giving animals somewhere to rest during the hottest hours of the day.

A wet towel or old piece of cloth can offer a cooler surface for strays to lie on, helping them avoid direct contact with burning-hot asphalt or paving stones.

For stray animal care, it is always worth coordinating with neighbours or local volunteers. The more people who help, the easier it becomes to keep animals safe during periods of extreme heat.

At Pet City stores and through the eshop petcity.gr, you can find products that help protect pets from the heat and keep them more comfortable during the most difficult summer days.