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Pets and Summer Heat Safety

With summer just around the corner, a recent survey conducted by AniCom, the leading pet insurance company in Japan, reveals that an overwhelming majority of pet owners are concerned about the impacts of heat on their animals. Conducted through their exclusive survey platform 'ani voice', this inquiry involved 3,347 participants and highlighted their strategies in managing the heat for their furry friends.

Alarming Heat Concerns Among Pet Owners

The survey indicated that 91% of pet owners worry about heatstroke, followed closely by concerns regarding dehydration (67%) and reduced appetite (45%). The data showed that the specific worries can vary depending on the type of pet. For instance, dog owners seem particularly concerned about potential burns from hot asphalt, while cat owners are more focused on preventing dehydration, and rabbit owners are worried about their pets' decreased appetite. This suggests that owners are attuned to the unique behaviors and health needs of their pets.

Effective Home Cooling Solutions

At home, using air conditioning emerged as the most popular method for keeping pets cool, with 97% of owners using it while spending time with their pets, and 93% doing so while leaving them alone. This indicates a strong understanding among pet owners of the importance of temperature and humidity control. Notably, cat owners showed a proactive approach by placing water bowls in multiple areas around their homes, enhancing hydration accessibility. Additionally, owners of rabbits and birds reported a higher tendency to monitor temperature and humidity levels, ensuring comfortable living conditions both when they are present and when they are not.

Choosing The Right Time For Walks

When it comes to outdoor activities, choosing a cooler time for walking pets is a prevalent strategy, with over 80% of dog owners reporting they prefer to go out during these hours. The most favored times for walks in the summer are after 6 PM (59%) and early morning (between 4 AM and 6 AM), indicating that owners are adjusting their routines to avoid the midday heat. It’s important to note, however, that even after sunset, asphalt can retain heat for some time, posing a burn risk to pet paws. Pet owners are encouraged to check the ground temperature by placing their hands on the asphalt before heading out, a small effort that can ensure their pets' safety.

Creative Hydration Techniques

To combat dehydration, many pet owners are making conscious choices concerning their pets' diets by incorporating wet food, ice, and paste-like treats into their hydration strategies. Among cat owners, a significant 54% are opting to offer wet food, while 31% of dog owners are giving them ice to cool down. This shift towards more hydrating food options reflects a growing awareness of the need to ensure that pets are adequately hydrated during the hotter months.

Preparing for a Hot Summer

As the rainy season comes to an end, reports indicate that areas in western Japan are experiencing early summer heat waves, and July and August are likely to be even hotter. Heatstroke presents a serious risk for pets, but with appropriate daily care, it is a preventable condition. AniCom is committed to providing resources such as the 'Heat Stroke Week Forecast' shared via social media, empowering pet owners to manage their pets’ room temperatures and food selections effectively.

Owners can gain insights into the proper care and effective prevention tactics to keep their pets safe and comfortable throughout the summer.

Follow Us for Updates

For those interested in keeping their pets safe this summer, follow AniCom on Instagram, X, and Facebook for the latest news and resources. Stay vigilant and ensure your beloved pets have a safe and enjoyable summer ahead.