Summer Care for Pets & Plants: Keeping Them Happy & Healthy
As the sweltering heat of summer settles in across Oman, it’s crucial to shift our focus to the well-being of the two things that rely heavily on us for care: our beloved pets and plants. The intense summer temperatures can be harsh on both, but with the right knowledge and precautions, we can ensure they remain healthy, happy, and thriving. Here’s your guide to summer care for pets and plants, ensuring they stay cool and comfortable during the hottest months.
“Pet Care: Protecting Your Furry Friends from the Heat. Our pets are as sensitive to high temperatures as we are, and during the peak summer months, it’s vital to ensure they are safe from the heat’s potentially harmful effects.”
Hydration is Key – Pets, especially dogs and cats, can easily become dehydrated in the heat. Always ensure that they have access to fresh water throughout the day. Consider adding a few ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it cool, and refresh their water regularly to encourage them to drink more. For pets with thicker coats, like long-haired dogs, make sure they drink more frequently as they can overheat quickly.
Keep Them Indoors During the Hottest Hours – During the hottest parts of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), it’s best to keep your pets indoors to avoid exposure to extreme heat. This is especially important for pets with short noses like Bulldogs or Pugs, which are more prone to heatstroke. If they must go outside, limit the time spent outdoors and always offer shade and fresh water.
Cooling Mats & A/C for Comfort – Cooling mats and cooling vests are fantastic for pets that tend to overheat easily. These mats work by absorbing body heat and providing a cool surface for them to lie on. You can also use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. Be sure to avoid leaving pets in cars, even for a short period, as the temperature inside a vehicle can soar to dangerous levels in a matter of minutes.
Paw Protection – Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws, especially in extreme heat. Check the ground before walking your dog—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Walk your pet early in the morning or late in the evening when the pavement is cooler. Consider using protective booties if your pet tolerates them.
Watch for Heatstroke Symptoms – Pets can suffer from heatstroke just like humans, and it’s crucial to know the signs. Symptoms of heatstroke in pets include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your pet to a cooler place, offer water, and contact your vet immediately.
“Plant Care: Protecting Your Greenery from the Heat – The rising temperatures also put stress on your plants, but with a few adjustments, you can help them thrive even in the harsh summer sun.”
Proper Watering Practices – Watering plants correctly is one of the most important things you can do to help them withstand the heat. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth, which helps plants endure the summer heat. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times to water your plants, as this reduces evaporation and ensures the water is absorbed properly.
Avoid watering in the middle of the day, as the hot sun can cause the water to evaporate too quickly, making it less effective. If you’re dealing with potted plants, check their soil daily, as pots dry out faster than garden beds.
Use Mulch to Retain Moisture – Mulch is an excellent tool for conserving moisture in the soil and protecting your plants from the heat. It acts as an insulating layer that keeps the soil cool, reduces evaporation, and prevents weed growth. Spread a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch (like bark, straw, or compost) around the base of your plants to help them retain moisture during the hot summer months.
Shade Your Plants – Some plants, especially tender ones, can get scorched under direct midday sun. Consider using shade cloths, garden umbrellas, or creating natural shade using taller plants to protect delicate species from heat stress. Be sure to provide a balance—while shading can help, plants still need sunlight for photosynthesis, so aim to block only the harshest midday rays.
Choose Heat-Resistant Plants – If you’re adding new plants to your garden this summer, choose varieties that are more tolerant of high temperatures. Drought-resistant and heat-tolerant plants, such as succulents, lavender, geraniums, and certain types of grasses, are excellent choices for the summer heat. These plants require less water and can withstand the intense sun.
Regular Pruning and Maintenance – Keep an eye on your plants for any signs of damage from the heat. Dry, crispy leaves or stems should be removed, as they can drain energy from the healthy parts of the plant. Regular pruning ensures that your plants are in the best shape to handle the heat and keeps them looking their best throughout the season.
Consider Indoor Plants for Extra Coolness – If you don’t have a garden or want to add greenery indoors, consider bringing in houseplants that thrive in indoor conditions. Aloe vera, peace lilies, and snake plants are great indoor options that don’t require too much care and can adapt well to warm, dry conditions. They also help improve air quality, which is an added benefit during the summer heat.
Keeping Cool in the Heat – Summer care for pets and plants requires a little extra attention, but with these simple steps, both can stay healthy and happy even in the hottest months. By focusing on hydration, shade, and cooling strategies for your pets, and using effective watering techniques, mulching, and selecting heat-resistant plants for your garden, you’ll be able to manage the summer heat with ease.
Whether you’re pampering your pets with a cooling mat or ensuring your plants have enough shade and moisture, small changes can make a big difference. With these care tips, you’ll help both your furry friends and your greenery thrive, no matter how high the temperatures climb