Activities to do inside with your pets whilst it’s too hot outside!!

by Sarah R - RVN

Unfortunately, with the soaring temperatures outside our pets are spending more time indoors to try and stay cool. Here are just a few suggestions to keep them happy and entertained during the warmer weather. Always supervise your pets during any activity and keep play sessions short (10-15 minutes) to allow plenty of rest too.

  • Always make sure your pet has access to plenty of cool water.
  • Hide and Seek Games- hiding favourite treats, kibble or toys around the house and teaching the ‘find it’ command can help engage their natural scenting behaviours. Just a few ideas include hiding treats in rolled towels, blankets, egg boxes and cardboard tubes. You could always hide too! 
  • Licki-mats and Kong toys - freeze favourite treats or their food and let your pet enjoy a refreshing treat. Some ideas include yogurt, cottage cheese and dog friendly peanut butter (must NOT contain xylitol). Adding in cucumber and watermelon count as healthy treats and will help keep your pet hydrated and cool.
  • Teach your dog new tricks or refresh their basic training - great for their mental stimulation.
  • Set up a little obstacle course - for instance cavaletti poles/foam wedges to help your dog with its balance and create a fun exercise (just wanting to lift feet over, no jumping as not wanting to make our pets too warm)!
  • Try out different puzzle toys or snuffle mats to engage their minds and make meal times more fun!
  • Cats can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, if venturing outside ensure your cat has access to plenty of shade. Perhaps put up a parasol and put out extra water. You can apply some of the above ideas with your cats too.