Keeping your pet safe in the UAE summer heat

The UAE summer is one of the toughest environments in the world for a pet. Heatstroke is common, comes on fast, and can be fatal — but it’s almost entirely preventable. Here’s how to keep your dog or cat safe through the hottest months.

The 7-second pavement test

Before a walk, press the back of your hand to the pavement for seven seconds. If you can’t hold it there, it’s too hot for their paws — hot asphalt and sand cause painful burns. Walk in the early morning or after dark, and stick to shaded routes.

Water and shade, everywhere

Keep multiple sources of fresh water available indoors and out, and make sure there’s always shade. Cats on dry food are especially prone to drinking too little, so a water fountain or wet food can help them stay hydrated.

Never leave a pet in a car

Even for a couple of minutes, and even with the engine off, a parked car becomes lethally hot in the UAE within minutes. There is no safe version of this — never do it.

Don’t shave double coats

It seems logical, but a double coat actually insulates against heat and shields the skin from sun. Shaving can make a pet hotter and expose them to sunburn. Ask your vet or groomer about the right summer grooming for your pet’s coat.

Know the signs of heatstroke

Act fast if you see heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, wobbliness, vomiting or collapse. Move your pet to a cool place, offer water, cool them gradually with cool (not ice-cold) water, and call the vet immediately. Minutes matter.

Higher-risk pets — and indoor risks

Flat-faced breeds, seniors, overweight pets and thick-coated dogs overheat faster and need extra care — sometimes even indoors. Remember that AC failures and power cuts can turn a home dangerous quickly, so it’s worth having a plan for hot days.