Keeping energy costs low can be a challenge, especially during the dog days of summer – the time between early July and early August when we experience our hottest days in the Northern Hemisphere. This becomes even more of a challenge when you add pets to the equation. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can implement to save on energy costs while keeping your pets cool and happy. Read on for five practical tips to help your pets beat the heat this summer:
Create Shady Areas
Create shaded areas inside and outside your home to provide a cool retreat for your pets, allowing them to escape from the sun. By keeping your home shaded, you reduce the amount of heat entering through windows and doors, significantly reducing your pet’s reliance on air conditioning while you’re away from home. You can use curtains, blinds, or even UV-blocking window films to keep the sunlight out!
Utilize Fans
Place fans near your pet’s favorite resting spots to keep them cool without needing to overuse your air conditioning. Fans enhance air circulation, creating a cooling breeze that can help your pet stay comfortable, especially if they are in an area where they can relax and enjoy the breeze. Use ceiling fans, box fans, or oscillating fans to contribute to a cooler home.
Use Cooling Mats/Beds
Cooling mats and beds are designed to absorb and dissipate heat from your pet’s body, providing immediate relief from the heat. These are especially helpful for pets with thick fur or pets who are prone to overheating. By providing a specific cool spot for your pets, you can maintain a slightly higher overall room temperature, reducing the need for air conditioning especially when you’re away from home. Cooling mats and beds work without electricity, making them one of the most energy-efficient solutions to keeping your pets cool!
Time Outdoor Activities Carefully
Schedule your pets’ outdoor time during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Limiting outdoor activities during peak heat helps protect your pets from heat exhaustion, dehydration, and burns from hot pavement. In scheduling outdoor activities during cooler times, you’ll also reduce the need to over-cool your home when you return.
Energy-Efficient Pet Doors
If your home has pet doors, consider upgrading them to energy-efficient models. Traditional pet doors can be a major source of energy loss, as they often don’t seal properly. Energy-efficient pet doors, designed with insulation and weather stripping or magnetic closures to minimize air leakage, allow your pets to move freely between indoors and outdoors while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. This efficiency not only keeps your pets comfortable but also helps lower your overall energy bill!
By implementing these tips, you can create a comfortable and energy-efficient environment for both you and your pets during the dog days of summer. For more energy-saving tips, visit www.nopec.org/residents/energy-tips.
