As temperatures soar across Belgium, our pets and local wildlife face serious risks from heat stress and dehydration.
From French Bulldogs to garden bees, here's your essential guide to protecting animals during Belgium's hottest months – with crucial scientific insights on why vehicles become death traps for pets.
The deadly danger of parked cars
Many pet owners underestimate how quickly a car can turn lethal. Unlike humans who sweat over their entire bodies, dogs primarily cool themselves through panting and limited sweat glands in their paw pads. This inefficient system makes them vulnerable to overheating even in mild temperatures.
A car parked in 24°C sunshine can reach 38°C within 10 minutes and 49°C within 30 minutes – temperatures that cause irreversible organ damage or death. Cracking windows provides negligible relief, as airflow is insufficient for proper thermoregulation. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs are at particular risk, often succumbing to heatstroke within 15 minutes due to their compromised airways. If you see a pet locked in a hot car, note the license plate, alert nearby businesses, and call police immediately. A few minutes of your time could save a life.
Keeping dogs and cats cool
Our four-legged companions struggle more than we realize in summer heat. Always provide multiple sources of fresh water, refreshing bowls several times daily. Adding ice cubes can help maintain cooler temperatures longer.
Schedule walks for early mornings or late evenings when pavement temperatures are lowest. Use the 7-second test: if you can't hold your hand comfortably on the asphalt, it's burning your pet's paws. Consider protective booties for essential midday outings.
Flat-faced breeds (e.g. Pugs, Bulldogs and Persians) need special attention as their shortened airways make temperature regulation particularly difficult. Keep these pets in climate-controlled spaces during heatwaves and watch closely for distress signals.
Recognizing and responding to heatstroke
Vigilance can save lives during extreme heat. Watch for these critical warning signs: excessive panting, thick drooling, bright red gums, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, act immediately by moving your pet to shade, offering cool (not cold) water, and applying lukewarm water to their paws and body. Contact your veterinarian without delay - heatstroke can be fatal.
Smart summer care strategies
Adjust feeding routines by offering smaller, more frequent meals as pets often eat less in high temperatures. Remove uneaten wet food promptly to prevent spoilage. While it might seem logical to shave long-haired dogs, their coats actually provide vital insulation - opt instead for professional thinning and maintain regular brushing to remove excess undercoat.
Create cool retreats indoors using fans (positioned to allow pets to move away from direct airflow), cooling mats, or damp towels. Avoid strenuous play even during cooler hours, substituting physical activity with mentally stimulating puzzle toys or training sessions.
Supporting urban wildlife
Birds, hedgehogs, and pollinators like bees struggle during heatwaves as water sources dry up.
Set up a water station. A shallow dish with fresh water and pebbles (for insects to land on) can be a lifesaver. Place it on a balcony, windowsill, or garden, away from predators.
Leave “wild corners” in gardens. Dried flowers and leaf piles may look untidy, but they provide shelter for insects and small animals. Native, nectar-rich plants also support urban biodiversity.
Special Considerations:
- Brachycephalic breeds overheat faster—keep them indoors during peak heat.
- Ticks and fleas thrive in warm weather—ensure parasite prevention is up to date.
- Local wildlife in distress? Contact organizations like Natuurhulpcentrum or Voge
lbescherming Vlaanderen . - Use the 7-second pavement test: if you can't hold your hand down comfortably, it's too hot for paws
Small efforts, big impact
By understanding animals' unique thermoregulation challenges and adjusting our habits, we can ensure all of Belgium's creatures stay safe under the summer sun.
Dr. Bia Mori is a Brussels-based veterinary scientist specialising in Dogs and Cats Health
