Summer is here, and if you share your home with a dog and a cat, you already know: they have very different opinions about it.
Wilbur, our Jack Russell Terrier, treats summer like a personal invitation to run faster, dig deeper, and demand more adventures. Lottie, our resident cat and self-appointed quality control officer, prefers to supervise from a shaded window perch, occasionally deigning to bat at something if it crosses her path.
Between the two of them, we've figured out exactly what makes summer great for pets (and their humans). Here's their approved checklist.
1. Hydration That Actually Works
Wilbur could drink an entire bowl of water after a 10-minute walk in July. Lottie, being a cat, prefers to pretend she doesn't need water and then drink from the most inconvenient source possible. A good bowl situation matters for both. We love a sturdy, easy-clean option that doesn't tip, slide, or turn into a splash pad.
Wilbur & Lottie's pick: Bowls
2. The Perfect Walking Setup for Hot Pavement
Here's something a lot of dog owners don't think about until it's too late: pavement in summer can get hot enough to burn paw pads. Wilbur's solution is a well-fitted harness (easier to control an excited Jack Russell) and early morning or evening walks when the ground has cooled. A simple way to check: place the back of your hand flat on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it's too hot or uncomfortable to hold it there, it's too hot for your dog's paws. When in doubt, stick to grass or walk during cooler parts of the day.
Wilbur's pick: Collars, Harnesses & Leashes
3. Indoor Enrichment for the Hottest Hours
Between about noon and 4pm in summer, Wilbur and Lottie are both inside, and that's when things get creative. Enrichment toys and lick mats are lifesavers for keeping pets mentally stimulated when outdoor time is limited. Wilbur is particularly devoted to anything that dispenses treats slowly. Lottie acts unimpressed but always ends up playing.
Their picks: Dog Enrichment and Cat Toys
4. A Cool, Comfortable Place to Rest
Wilbur's preferred summer nap spot is directly in front of the fan. Lottie's is wherever Wilbur isn't. Either way, a good pet bed that doesn't trap heat makes a real difference in the warmer months — look for breathable materials and low-profile designs that don't insulate.
Their pick: Beds
5. Travel Gear That Handles the Season
Summer means road trips, beach days, and spontaneous adventures, at least in Wilbur's world. A reliable carrier and travel accessories make the difference between a stressful outing and a great one. Lottie has opinions about her carrier. Wilbur has opinions about everything else.
Their picks: Carriers and Travel Accessories
6. Treats Worth Earning
After a summer walk, Wilbur expects to be compensated. Fairly and promptly. We're big fans of single-ingredient, high-quality treats that you can feel good about giving, especially freeze-dried options that don't melt in the heat.
Their pick: Dog Treats and Cat Treats
Final word from the experts:
Wilbur says summer is the best season and would like more of it. Lottie has no comment but was seen lying in a sunbeam for approximately four hours yesterday, so we think she agrees.
Whatever your pet's summer style — adventurous or aggressively relaxed — we've got them covered.