As the scorching summer heat arrives with temperatures exceeding 40°C, ensuring the safety of our beloved pets becomes critical. A survey conducted by TYL, a fast-growing venture dedicated to promoting the integration of pets into families, indicates that nearly half of pet owners are enhancing their measures against heat-related risks for pets. The study underscores the pressing need for effective heatstroke prevention amidst rising global temperatures.
Background of the Investigation
The phenomenon of increasingly frequent extreme heat days has sparked significant concern. According to data compiled by Anicom Insurance, the number of heatstroke cases among dogs and cats has escalated dramatically, particularly in July 2025, when dogs accounted for 1,439 cases and cats for 191 cases. The impending summer of 2026 poses a heightened risk for pet health, necessitating comprehensive awareness and proactive measures among pet owners.
Key Findings from the Survey
The recent survey reveals interesting trends in how pets are cared for during the heat
- - Focus on Climate Control: The dominant strategy employed by owners revolves around air conditioning, with 89.5% opting to keep the AC running even when they are away from home. The preferred indoor temperature settings are split, with 57.4% favoring a cooler range of 21°C to 25°C and 41.7% opting for a slightly warmer 26°C to 29°C.
- - Shift in Walking Times: As a preventative measure against the extreme heat, many owners are adjusting their pet walking schedules to early morning (4:00-9:00) or evening (18:00-22:00) time slots. This not only reduces the risk of heat exhaustion but also accommodates the cooler temperatures prevalent during these hours.
- - Adoption of Cool Products: The use of cooling items is becoming a standard practice. Items like cooling mats, pet shoes, and even circulators are gaining popularity as pet owners strive to protect their furry friends from heat injuries.
Rising Costs for Heatstroke Prevention
One of the most concerning findings relates to the costs associated with these heat management strategies. Many pet owners indicated they are spending anywhere from ¥3,000 to over ¥10,000 per month on heatstroke prevention measures, primarily due to increased electricity costs from air conditioning. More than half of respondents expressed concern that this year’s expenses will exceed those of previous years, reflecting the financial strain caused by the escalating heat and rising energy rates.
Walking Practices and Innovations
With the rising daytime temperatures, owners are increasingly avoiding afternoon walks. Instead, they are implementing unique strategies to ensure their pets stay cool. Suggestions such as dressing pets in wet clothes, using neck coolers with ice packs, and even modifying pet strollers with mini fans have surfaced. There’s also a notable trend toward using pet shoes for paw protection against hot surfaces.
Expert Advice on Pet Heatstroke Prevention
Dr. Yo Fujino, Chief Veterinarian at the Anihok Animal Hospital Group, offers three key points on how to effectively manage pet health during these oppressive heatwaves:
1.
Observation and Hydration: Constantly monitor your pet's condition and ensure they have access to clean drinking water, especially during hot months.
2.
Air Conditioning is Essential: Setting air conditioning to 25-26°C is recommended to maintain a healthy indoor environment. It's crucial to prevent extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night.
3.
Innovative Cooling Solutions: In addition to air conditioning, consider integrating circulating fans and cooling mats for enhanced comfort. Moreover, modifying your pet's food with wet options can help with hydration during the summer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as the sun blazes down, it is essential for pet owners to adopt comprehensive heatstroke prevention strategies. From adjusting walking times to improving indoor climates, the responsibility to ensure pet safety rests with us. By being vigilant and proactive, we can shield our beloved companions from the summer heat and nurture their health as integral members of our families.
Survey Overview
- - Theme: Awareness and Prevention of Pet Heatstroke
- - Method: Online research
- - Participants: 210 pet owners
- - Conducted: June 10-18, 2026
- - Conducted by: TYL, Inc.
About TYL
Founded in August 2017 and headquartered in Tokyo, TYL is dedicated to promoting pets as family members. The company supports both veterinary practices and pet owners, utilizing technology to create comprehensive solutions for a healthier pet environment. For more details, visit
TYL Corporate Site.
Company Overview
- - Name: TYL, Inc.
- - CEO: Shohei Kaneko
- - Capital: ¥225,124,800
- - Location: 2-13-4 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.