When summer temperatures rise in Cambridgeshire, it’s not just humans who feel the heat—our furry friends do too! As a qualified veterinary nurse and the face behind Rhiannon’s Pet Sitting, I know how important it is to keep pets cool, comfortable, and safe during hot weather.

Here are some easy, vet-approved ways to help your pet beat the heat this summer, along with a few cooling products I highly recommend for pet owners in Cambridge and surrounding areas.

1. Keep Hydration Levels High

Just like us, pets need more water in the summer. Make sure your pet always has access to fresh, cool drinking water throughout the day. If you're heading out, take a portable water bowl with you.

💧 Top Tip: Consider using a pet water fountain – these encourage pets to drink more often by keeping water flowing and cool. Brands like Cat Mate or PetSafe offer great options for both cats and dogs.

2. Use Cooling Mats and Pads

Cooling mats are a fantastic way to help pets regulate their body temperature, especially for dogs that love to lounge. These self-cooling pads don’t require electricity or refrigeration and are great for use indoors or in shady garden spots.

🧊 Vet Tip: Look for gel-based cooling pads with non-toxic materials. I personally recommend using them in your pet’s favourite nap spot.

3. Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars

It may seem obvious, but it's worth repeating: even with windows open, cars heat up incredibly fast and can become deadly within minutes. If you're popping into a shop in Cambridge, leave your pet at home in a cool, well-ventilated space.

4. Offer Shaded Resting Areas

If your pet spends time outdoors, ensure there’s plenty of shade—natural or artificial. Pop-up shade tents, patio umbrellas, or even a draped towel over part of their pen can offer relief from direct sun.

5. Avoid Walks During Peak Heat

In Cambridgeshire, midday sun can be intense. Try to walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when the pavement is cooler and the air more comfortable.

🐾 Check the ground: If you can't hold your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws!

6. Provide Mental Stimulation Indoors

On especially hot days, skip outdoor play and keep your pet entertained inside with puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or frozen treat toys like KONGs filled with banana, peanut butter, or soaked kibble.

7. Watch for Signs of Overheating

Be alert for signs like excessive panting, drooling, restlessness, or lethargy. These can indicate heatstroke, which is a veterinary emergency. If you notice any of these symptoms, cool your pet down with lukewarm water and contact a vet immediately.

Extra TLC from a Vet Nurse Pet Sitter

At Rhiannon’s Pet Sitting in Cambridge, I don’t just feed and walk pets—I provide qualified, veterinary-level care. That means during every visit, I’m keeping an eye on hydration, temperature, and your pet’s general wellbeing. Whether your pet needs medication, health checks, or just someone to keep them cool and calm, I’ve got it covered.

Need Pet Sitting This Summer in Cambridgeshire?

Whether you're off on holiday or working long hours, you can trust Rhiannon’s Pet Sitting for professional, compassionate care. I offer pet sitting across Cambridge, Trumpington, Chesterton, Cherry Hinton, and surrounding villages.

📸 Plus, you’ll receive regular photo and video updates—so you can see your pet is cool, content, and in safe hands!