Here are essential tips to keep dogs, cats and small animals happy, healthy and safe in the heat and sun.
Pets bring endless love and laughter to our homes, but living in the UAE means pet care comes with its own set of seasonal considerations. Between soaring summer heat, dusty long days and surprisingly cool winter nights, our furry (and feathered!) friends need a little extra care to stay safe, happy and healthy all year round.
Just as we swap wardrobes, adjust routines and tweak our diets with the weather, our pets need similar seasonal check-ins. A few mindful adjustments can make all the difference and ensure that your pets thrive, no matter the month.
Summer heat
Summer in Dubai is no joke – and our pets feel it too. With high temperatures, overheating and dehydration are real risks, especially for short-nosed dog breeds like pugs and bulldogs or cats with thicker coats.
As such, always ensure your pets have constant access to fresh, filtered water and a cool, shaded space. Also, it’s better to schedule walks early in the morning or after sunset when the pavements aren’t scorching, as hot ground can burn paw pads in seconds. For smaller pets in cages or enclosures, move them indoors during peak heat and add cooling tricks like frozen water bottles or small fans to keep their space comfortable.
And if you’re heading out, never leave pets alone in the car – even with the windows cracked, temperatures can rise dangerously in minutes. Instead, keep them cool at home with cooling mats or gel pads, which work wonders, especially for dogs.
Lastly, don’t skip grooming – regular brushing removes excess fur, reduces heat retention and helps prevent irritation caused by sweat, dust, and sand. A frozen treat, like pet-safe ice cubes or frozen fruit, can also make summer a little more bearable!
Autumn and winter
When the summer heat finally loosens its grip, autumn and winter open up a world of outdoor possibilities. With cooler evenings and sunny but mild days, this is the perfect season for longer walks, playful park visits, and even a little basic training in the garden.
Just remember, even cooler weather can come with challenges. Wind and dry air often carry dust and fine sand that can irritate sensitive eyes and noses. So, make a habit of gently wiping down your pet’s face, paws and fur after outdoor play to prevent itching and discomfort.
Shorter days don’t mean less fun as evening play sessions indoors help keep pets engaged and active. This is a great time of year to strengthen socialisation, explore new shaded spaces or even take short hikes. The moderate temperatures mean pets can be more active for longer without the risk of overheating.
Spring allergies
Spring in Dubai often brings gusty winds and bursts of pollen from urban greenery, and our pets feel the effects just as much as we do. Sneezing, watery eyes, and itchy skin are common signs of allergies in both dogs and cats during this season.
Daily grooming becomes even more important because it removes dust, prevents tangles and helps you spot any irritation early. Wiping down your furry friend’s paws and coats after walks can also limit the amount of dust they track indoors. On particularly dusty days or during sandstorms, it might be a good idea to keep windows shut and limit outdoor exposure.
For outdoor-loving cats, perhaps consider a balcony enclosure or window perch. These spaces give them the fresh air they crave without overexposure to allergens and dust. And, as always, keep flea and tick prevention consistent – pests are a year-round reality here.
Year-round health checks
Seasonal routines are key, but there are also year-round essentials every pet parent should stick to. Keep vaccinations up to date, schedule regular deworming and maintain a flea and tick prevention plan.
Routine grooming – brushing, dental care and nail trims – keeps pets comfortable and healthy. Pay attention to subtle changes in behaviour, appetite, or energy levels. Even small shifts can indicate that something’s not right, and catching issues early makes treatment far easier.
A quick seasonal vet check is a proactive way to ensure everything is on track and can give you peace of mind heading into the next season.
Feeding for the seasons
Your pet’s dietary needs often change with the weather. In summer, when activity levels dip, lighter meals and plenty of hydration will keep their energy balanced. In winter, slightly more calories might be needed, especially for active dogs who are out enjoying the cooler weather.
Small pets – like rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters – need special attention too. It’s best to keep bedding fresh and dry during humid spells, and ensure their cages are well-ventilated in summer.
If you’re unsure about portion sizes or supplements, your vet can recommend seasonal tweaks that support your pet’s unique needs.
Play and socialisation
Pets aren’t just physical beings – they need mental enrichment and social connection all year round. Dogs thrive with short, regular training sessions, while cats enjoy the challenge of puzzle feeders or the thrill of a climbing frame.
When the weather isn’t ideal, try short bursts of indoor play – think hide-and-seek, scent games or obstacle courses for dogs, and feather toys or window-watching stations for cats.
It might be helpful to rotate toys every few weeks to keep things fresh and remember that socialisation matters, too. Safe, shaded meetups with other pets or calm introductions to new environments help build confidence and reduce anxiety.
With a small investment of time and attention, you will be well able to keep your pets happy, safe, and healthy all year round – and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re giving them the best possible care. After all, a happy pet makes for a happy home, no matter the weather outside!
Image Credit: ShutterStock
