Category: Ferrets

  • Afterpay for Chicken Coops, Rabbit Hutches and Somerzby Pet Products

    Afterpay for Chicken Coops, Rabbit Hutches and Somerzby Pet Products

    Somerzby are looking to the future and that future means listening to our customers about their preferred payment methods.

    Gone are the days of spending up large on multiple credit cards with ramped up interest charges or signing up to complex hire purchase agreements with dubious fine print conditions.

    Today’s customers want to be able to shop online and purchase in comfort and security with easy payment options.

    Modern customers are increasingly tech savvy and also want to preserve their privacy. The wildly popular Afterpay platform was created to fill just those needs and is going from strength to strength.

    Afterpay already has more than 53,000 followers on Facebook.

    Somerzby recognised the need for a payment platform that allowed customers to purchase and enjoy our products now and pay later but without the painful credit fees.

    That’s why we have added Afterpay as a payment option for you in our online store.Select afterpay as your payment method

    What is Afterpay?

    Afterpay is an exciting new payment platform that allows you to purchase and receive goods immediately but pay them off in instalments without incurring any credit fees or other costs.

    Afterpay is the exciting new tech innovation that meets your need for a payment option that really looks after your private information and ensures your money goes to purchasing the things you need and want without handing a percentage to the banks.

    Afterpay is your perfect shopping partner when you shop with Somerzby. Simply choose Afterpay as your payment option at checkout—it’s so easy.

    Afterpay means you get to:

    • Enjoy your purchase immediately
    • Pay for your purchase in four easy fortnightly instalments
    • Forget about credit fees or extra charges
    • Purchase online without having to hand over your personal details

    Savvy credit card users know to pay off their debts in full before incurring interest but with Afterpay you don’t even have to think about making the payments at all, as your nominated debit card (or credit card) will be automatically debited on the instalment due date.

    You can log on to your Afterpay account at any time to keep tabs on your purchases and payment history.

    The popularity of Afterpay is going through the roof—more than 15% of online shoppers are now using Afterpay as their preferred method of payment.

    Afterpay - Lodge

    Why Is Afterpay Perfect For Online Shopping?

    Online shopping has become the preferred form of shopping for many people today.

    You love the convenience, ease, the enormous range and the amazing bargains available but constantly handing over your personal banking information to every online store you visit is a real drag and a very real security risk.

    Add the varying standards of online store banking security and you could find yourself the latest victim of a hacking scam.

    Afterpay means you never have to hand over your financial details to an online store again.

    Simply log in to Afterpay, choose your preferred store and the items you want to purchase and then nominate Afterpay as your payment option at checkout.

    You will receive a purchase confirmation email detailing the dates of your payment instalments and the amounts of each instalment.

    New customers will pay the first instalment up front (and also for purchases over $500) whereas existing Afterpay customers will pay their first instalment after two weeks.

    Afterpay will guarantee payment to the merchant and the merchant will ship your items immediately to you.

    It’s that easy and the online store will never know your financial details.

    Afterpay has taken online shopping to a whole new level of security, peace of mind and convenience.

    afterpay, BUY NOW, PAY LATER

    What Will It Cost Me?

    Absolutely nothing.

    That’s the great thing about Afterpay—it costs you nothing—no interest or credit fees or handling charges.

    Afterpay is leading the revolution away from debt inducing credit cards with their punitive interest rates.

    Yes, you can link your Afterpay to your credit card but according to Afterpay founder, Nick Molnar, some 85% of Afterpay users use debit cards to pay off the instalments and this trend is growing.

    Yes, there may be a modest late payment fee if you miss an installment and don’t make alternative arrangements to pay.

    But Afterpay encourages responsible spending by simply preventing you from making any further purchases until you have paid your Afterpay debts.

    Afterpay knows that you will love the Afterpay experience so much that refusal of service will guarantee prompt payments of debts.

    Afterpay Installment Plan

    What If I’m Not Happy With My Purchase?

    Afterpay is committed to creating a great shopping experience for both customers and merchants.

    If you are not satisfied with any of our Somerzby products simply return them to us in good condition (in the original packaging) within 30 days and we will gladly refund the purchase price minus any Afterpay fees.

    Once we have received the goods back we simply instruct Afterpay to refund the amount back to your account.

    This may take a few days depending on your bank’s processes but rest assured Afterpay has you covered.

    Is Afterpay Safe?

    Here at Somerzby we take your financial security very seriously—that’s why we’re happy to use Afterpay,and ZipPay as payment options for our ecommerce online store

    Afterpay is fully compliant with all the requirements of the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council.

    Afterpay is recognised as a PCI DSS Level 1 certified compliant Service Provider organisation—this represents the highest level of security, safe handling, and storage for financial transactions and personal information.

    When you shop with Afterpay you know that not only your financial details are safe but your personal information also is protected.

    Afterpay is the innovative, painless way to ensure you are looking after your loved pets with all the best and latest Somerzby products.

  • Ultimate Guide to Keeping Ferrets

    Ultimate Guide to Keeping Ferrets

    Australian Escape-Proof Ferret Cages

    Ferrets make very playful, intelligent, and highly active pets.

    Their cute faces and furry sleek bodies coupled with their mischievous antics will provide hours of delight and companionship for children and adults.

    Ferrets are entirely domesticated versions of the wild polecat and are suitable as pets even in restricted spaces such as apartments or units.

    They are social animals and love human companionship. They are very intelligent and will respond to their name and can even learn tricks.

    Because of their social nature it is a good idea to keep more than one ferret especially if you cannot always devote 60 minutes or more each day to playing and interacting with your ferret.

    Due to their intelligence, curiosity, agility and sleek bodies ferrets have gained a reputation for being brilliant escape artists who can find their way through the most improbable small holes.

    This is why you need to invest in a high quality ferret cage from Somerzby.

    What Are the Laws About Keeping Ferrets in Australia?

    In some countries and in Queensland and the Northern Territory ferrets are considered pests.

    In NSW, Victoria, WA, SA, and Tasmania ferrets are accepted as pets without any legal restrictions.

    Australia’s climate and predation by dogs and cats has probably prevented escapee ferrets from becoming a pest in most parts of Australia.

    If you keep ferrets you must make sure that you escape proof their cage, your home and property to prevent ferrets escaping into the wild.

    You may keep ferrets as pets in ACT provided you obtain a license. It is illegal to keep ferrets in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

    Group of pet ferrets

    High Quality Ferret Cages – Australia

    Ferrets need to be housed in escape proof cages and any free-range areas you allow them to access must also be escape-proofed.

    This is for their protection as well as your peace of mind.

    Remember too that mice, rats, guinea pigs, reptiles, and birds are their natural prey so if you have these pets as well they need to be kept separate.

    Ferrets are highly active in short bursts (similar to a small dog). You should choose a cage that is large enough to allow your ferrets to run and play and get the exercise they need.

    When choosing a high quality ferret cage you should look out for the following:

    • Size – spacious enough for their exercise needs
    • Escape proof – ferrets are renowned for their ability to squeeze through tiny gaps
    • Easy-to-clean – ferrets can be toilet trained but you will still need to clean out their sleeping areas and litter boxes
    • Dark, safe sleeping areas – a ferret’s typical den in the wild is usually a dark safe hole so look to recreate this with a cozy sleeping box
    • Weatherproof – if you are keeping your ferrets outside you need to know that they are protected from the weather with solid weatherproof design and construction

    Pull out trays for easy cleaning are an essential for any well designed ferret cage; they just make the job so much easier. Somerzby ferret cages all feature stainless steel slide out trays that make cleaning a breeze.

    Platforms and ladders offer your ferrets extra dimensions to explore and play in their cage and these are standard features of all Somerzby ferret hutches.

    Galvanised mesh is standard on all Somerzby ferret cages and runs.

    Lucy Ferret Cage

    Lucy Ferret Cage

    The Lucy Ferret Cage is a great way to house your ferrets in comfort, safety, and style. Measuring 132cm x 64cm x 44cm it offers lots of space to play and rest for 2-3 ferrets.

    The ramps and multiple levels offer lots of play space to explore.

    White electro coated paint keeps your ferrets safe and also allows for excellent ventilation and some other features include:

    • Caster wheels for easy moving
    • 5 platforms
    • 5 ramps
    • Pull out plastic tray for cleaning
    • 250ml drink bottle
    • 3 front opening doors for easy access
    • Plastic Food Bowl 
     
    Cooper Ferret Cage

    Cooper Ferret Cage

    The Cooper has very generous measurements with an overall dimensions of 84cm x 64cm x 55cm allowing your ferrets to run around and play as much as they want.

    The small gaps in between the steel poles allows maximum ventilation while offering protection from snakes and other predators.

    Features include:

    • Grey hammerite coated steel
    • 3 platforms and 3 ramps
    • Plastic food bowl
    • 250ml drink bottle
    • 2 front opening doors
    • Pull out plastic tray for cleaning
     
    Tucker Ferret Cage
    The Tucker Ferret Cage is a premium, high quality cage made out of Grey hammerite coated steel and is suitable for 3 Ferrets or small pets. It measures 139cm x 79cm x52cm and has 4 levels so your ferrets can run around as much as they like.
     
    Other features include:
     
    • 1 hammock
    • 1 cushioned platform mat
    • Storage shelf at bottom
    • Plastic pull out tray for cleaning
    • Caster wheels for easy moving
    • 2 large front opening doors
    • Latch on top to open roof
     

    Where Should I Put My Ferret Cage?

    Ferrets don’t cope with heat, so you need to think carefully about the ideal placement for your Somerzby ferret hutch.

    It is particularly important to ensure the hutch is shaded from the sun during the hottest parts of the day throughout the summer.

    You may need to monitor the temperature inside their hutch from time to time as hot days may occur even during the cooler months.

    If you keep the hutch on the lawn that shady spot may become something of a mud bath during the wet months.

    If the run has no mesh floor check that there are no gaps under the run due to uneven ground levels because ferrets are expert escape artists.

    It’s always a good idea to choose a run that has a mesh floor such as the Somerzby Deluxe Cottage. Alternatively place the run on a hard level surface such as concrete.

    How Should I Set Up My Ferret Cage?

    Ferrets need access to clean water and good food is essential. Use heavy non-tip bowls to avoid mess in the feeding area. Water bottles work well to keep the feeding area dry.

    You can train your ferrets to use a toilet tray just as you would with a cat. Keep a little box filled with a quality paper-based litter for toileting.

    Do not use sawdust as ferrets may inhale the dust and this can cause health problems. Place this in a corner well away from the feeding area but near their sleeping area.

    Old towels or clothing are perfectly suited as bedding materials.

    Ferrets are highly inquisitive and love to play so make sure you keep a selection of their favourite toys inside the run.

    Common cat toys are a great choice for your ferrets but check there are no small parts that could be swallowed.

    Pet ferret in a harness

    What Do Ferrets Eat and Drink?

    Ferrets are carnivores. Ideally, they need to eat whole animals; birds, rabbits, and mice and you can buy these frozen from butchers or pet shops.

    Being able to rip and tear whole animals and chew bones will keep your ferret’s teeth and digestive system in great shape.

    If you prefer to use dry food, choose a really high quality dedicated ferret dry food from a veterinarian or pet shop.

    Ferrets do not digest carbohydrates and so you should not feed them sugary treats, fruits, cereals, vegetables, poor quality cat food or dog food.

    Clean fresh water should always be available.

    Should I Protect My Ferrets From Heat?

    Yes, ferrets do not cope with extreme heat. Their thick fur and inability to pant or sweat makes them very prone to heatstroke in temperatures above 25° or 26° C.

    Keeping your ferrets in air-conditioned parts of the house during the hot months is a very effective way of keeping them cool and comfortable.

    Alternatively, cool tiled areas of the house such as the laundry or underground/ basement areas may work.

    The Somerzby range of ferret hutches feature solid asphalt roofs that help deflect heat and the large mesh covered windows provide good ventilation.

    This makes them a great option for housing your ferrets outside. Remember to place the ferret hutch in a shady position during the hot season as a heat protection measure.

    Playing with your pet ferret

    Hygiene Tips For Ferrets

    Ferrets generally groom themselves, just like cats, but you can brush them from time to time if they enjoy it.

    Brushing may be especially helpful when your ferret is shedding their fur.

    Ferrets don’t need to be bathed frequently either unless they have been playing in the mud.

    Frequent washing will encourage oil secretion from the ferret’s skin and this can smell.

    Ferrets cannot retract their claws and so will need to be clipped every few weeks.

    Dental disease is one of the major issues facing domestic ferrets, but poor dental health is usually caused by a poor diet. This can be remedied through a good diet.

    Want to Buy your Ferret Cages with Afterpay – Click for More Info

  • Somerzby Christmas Competition

    Somerzby Christmas Competition

    Christmas Facebook Competition

    For your chance to win a Somerzby Cottage –

    We want to see your Somerzby hutch, coop or enclosure decorated in the Christmas Spirit.

    Think Christmas lights, tinsel, or any other decorations of your choice.

    For your chance to be the lucky owner of a Somerzby Cottage, simply post a photo of your Somerzby enclosure with all its decorations to our Facebook page.

    The Winner will be announced on the 18th December 2016.

    Your brand new Somerzby Cottage should arrive just in time for Christmas! What a treat for the kids.

    Conditions are:

    • Entries close 23:59 AEDT 17/12/16.
    • Only valid within Australia.
    • Photos much include an existing Somerzby, hutch, coop or enclosure.

    We found these lovely examples below online – happy decorating!

    Chicken Coops With Christmas Lights

    Win the Somerzby Cottage Chicken Coop

    All new style, adorable Coop available in 3 colours!

    With easy clean and access, the Somerzby Cottage is one of the favourites with Children and adults alike, it is the perfect fit for a smaller backyard.

    It is easy to clean with a Metal pull out tray and one complete side of the Coop forms a door.

    The attached run also features 2 Large opening doors for easy access to your Chooks and ease of cleaning.

    Pink Coop and run

    Features

    • Complete side opening door
    • Metal pull out tray for easy cleaning
    • Door to sleeping area can open and close
    • Rot resistant Fir Wood
    • Water proof grey/green asphalt roof
    • Water based non toxic stain
    • Galvanised mesh wire
    • Available in Pink with white trim, Blue with White Trim or Classic Brown and Green
    • Nesting box – W500mm x H320mm x D320mm approx
    • 2 large opening doors on run
    • 1 perch
    • Suitable for approx 2 chickens, if you let them out for daily runs or 3 rabbits

    Enter today and this could be all yours!

    Merry Christmas from all of us at Somerzby.

  • Adopting a Pet

    Adopting a Pet

    Adopting a pet is a selfless act thousands and thousands of animal lovers commit each and every year. Caring for an animal can be a rewarding experience, and adopting a pet from a local shelter often makes the bond between pet and pet owner that much stronger.

    Remember that owning a pet is a huge responsibility. Before signing any papers, consider the following do’s and don’ts of pet adoption.

    Pet Adoption – DO

    Do – Know why you’re adopting a pet

    Know why you're adopting a pet

    Choose the right pet for you and your family.

    Ask yourself why you want to adopt a pet before beginning the process. There are many reasons for adopting a pet, be it companionship, a gift for the kids or to fill the void left by a recently deceased pet. Before beginning the process, you should always determine the reason for adoption. If the reason is viable, continue with the process.

    Do – Choose the right pet

    Choosing the right pet involves more than finding the friendliest puppy or the cutest kitten. While compatibility is important, it’s often additional factors that determine if a pet and pet owner are a good match. These factors include space restrictions in the home, amount of time spent in the home and the presence of others, be it children or roommates.

    Do – Be willing to train the pet

    Pet adoption candidates should be willing to train the animal, as effective training opens the channels of communication and results in a longer, healthier relationship. Consider everything that goes into being a pet owner.

    Pet Adoption – DO NOT

    Do Not – Adopt on a whim

    Adopting a pet without carefully considering all the pros and cons is a great way to find yourself returning the pet to a shelter. Shelter animals are often most victimized by adopting on a whim, as the cost of adoption greatly pales in comparison to purchasing an animal from a breeder. Because those adoption fees are so low, it’s not uncommon to write off the fee as a loss and return the animal to the shelter.

    Do Not – Adopt if finances aren’t great

    Pets make great companions, but they can also be expensive. Always make an honest assessment of your finances to determine if you can truly afford to have a pet. The cost of pet ownership extends well beyond the initial adoption fee, as pets need food, shelter and sometimes medication just like their human counterparts.

    Do Not – Consider pet adoption a minor commitment

    Pet adoption requires a significant commitment that will no doubt alter a person’s lifestyle considerably. Men and women who enter the adoption process with a carefree attitude are likely to be among the many people who unfortunately return their animals to shelters every year. If you’re not willing to make that lifestyle change or commit fully to the animal, don’t adopt.

    Once you have considered all these factors, the next decision will be where to adopt your pet from?
    Know your options before deciding where you will adopt your pet from

    adopt your pet from

    Where to Adopt

    Shelter – Shelters sometimes take stray animals on behalf of local councils, but generally, they are privately owned charities run by local animal welfare organizations such as the RSPCA or Animal Welfare League. Some Accept surrenders from the public, but they often have a waiting list due to space constraints.

    Shelters generally assess the animal’s health and temperament before re- homing to ensure they are fit to join a family.

    Rescue – Rescue groups that call themselves ‘breed rescue’ or ‘foster care groups’ are generally a collaboration of animal loving volunteers in the community providing a safety net for rescue pets.

    Some have kennels, but often these people care for the pets in their homes. They take in the overflow of pets from pounds and shelters and sometimes direct from the public.

    The benefit of adopting from an independent rescue group is that the animals haven’t been through the stress of kennelling- Instead, they have been assessed in a home environment, so they can be accurately matched to suit your family and lifestyle.

    Pound – A pound is a council run facility that holds pets seized by rangers or found wandering in the community. It’s often the first place a lost pet will end up. By law, stray pets must be kept for several days to give their owners a chance to reclaim them, after which they are euthanized or rehomed.

    These facilities are open to the public and you can adopt pets directly from the pound, but be aware they usually haven’t been screened for health or temperament issues.

    Pet Adoption Preparation

    Somerzby Pet crates
    Be prepared, including for the trip home a Somerzby Pet Crate is perfect for transporting your new pet

    Before you collect your pet don’t forget to consider how you will transport them home.  We recommend a Somerzby pet crate. Our pet crates are collapsible and easy to transport. Somerzby pet crates are made from high-quality black electro-coated wire and are available a variety of sizes from small to XXL.

    Remember that your newly adopted pet will need to have food, bedding, toys and a collar and leash if you adopt a dog.

    Cats will also need a scratching post and a litter box. We also recommend a Somerzby Cat Enclosure – which offers a spacious, safe, and practical place to secure your cat overnight or when they are outdoors.

    Optional add-on Cat Runs give you the flexibility to adapt the enclosures to your needs and requirements.

  • Going on Holidays When You Have a Pet

    Going on Holidays When You Have a Pet

    Going on Holidays When You Have Pets

    We all love a holiday, but what do you do with your beloved furry family member? Depending on your destination, accommodation and if it will be safe for your pet, Do you take them with you? Or leave them behind with a carer or in a boarding kennel? Picking a holiday destination can be a tough choice, and so is deciding what to do with your pet! Here’s are our tips from the Somerzby team that may help you decide:

    Up to Date

    Before heading off on holiday, make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date. If you haven’t had your pet micro chipped – get this done along with any vaccinations. This will help protect them and also if they wonder off, that handy micro chip will help let the vet or council know who owns them.

    To Holiday or Not to Holiday

    When deciding if you should take your pet away with you there are a few things to consider first;

    Accommodation Is it pet friendly? Ensure before you leave that your accommodation allows pets, you don’t want to wait till you get there to find out they don’t.

    Safety If you have a dog, cat or small animal, is there a fenced yard or grassed area for them to have a playpen? Make sure there is adequate room for your pet and that it’s safe for them.

    Destination Is it safe for your pet? Are there walking trails or activities for you to do with them? There is no point taking your pet with you if you can’t include them in your holiday activities. Look into the area and see what’s around before booking or taking your pet with you.

    Travelling How long will it take you to get to your destination? – Keep in mind, you will need to make frequent stops to let your pet go to the toilet and also exercise.

    Does your pet travel well? If your pet get anxious in the car or away from home, it’s best to leave them at home with someone. Travelling in a car can stress some pets out and you also need to make sure they are safe when travelling. Ensure your pet is either in a crate, or ensure your pet is in a seatbelt harness.

    The Somerzby pet crates are perfect for transporting your pet when going on holidays.

    Our Somerzby pet crates are great for travel and will also provide a sleep area for your pet while on holidays.

    Friendly – Is your pet friendly and do they get along well with others? You need to consider if your pet is good at interacting with other pets/animals and isn’t aggressive around them or other people. Children can be unpredictable and some pets can become aggressive or frightened by sudden movements.

    dog crate training

    Leaving Your Pet at Home Whilst on Holidays

    Pet sitters, boarding kennels and pet spas or resorts- these are just a few of the choices you have if you leave your pet behind. When choosing one think about your pet and their needs and how they may feel and get along with other pets/animals.

    Pet sitters or a family member is a great choice if your pet doesn’t cope well with a big change, travelling in car, or doesn’t get along with other pets/animals. Make sure the person who is taking care of them understands your pets needs and are able to play with them and walk them if needed.

    Make sure you leave any emergency contacts for them, including your vet’s phone number. Your pet’s routine- this will help your pet feel more relaxed around whoever is taking care of them. Leave any leashes or collars out in the open so they are easy for your pet sitter/carer to find.

    Dietary requirements leave food in a visible and easy to reach spot for your pet’s carer, include any special dietary requirements that your pet might have or list foods that they are not allowed to eat.

    It’s also handy to have treats available for the carer to give your pet. This way they can reward your pet while you’re away and this can also help your pet feel more at ease. If it’s possible, have your pet sitter come to your home before you leave so you can show them where everything is and your pet can meet them and get used to their scent.

    Boarding kennels or pet spas are another great way for your pet to be looked after; this is great for a mini holiday for your pet too.

    Make sure you visit the kennels or spas before leaving your pet there and ensure that your pet will receive enough exercise and the facilities are clean, tidy and safe.

    If you choose to take your pet with you on holidays remember to plan for rest breaks and pet safety.

    Dog on Holiday

    Taking Your Pet on Holidays With You

    You checked the accommodation and the area is pet friendly, so you and your pet are ready for your holiday!

    Try to make your pet as comfortable as possible while travelling, this will help to reduce any anxiety or stress they may have. Take any bedding that they have with you, along with their drink and food bowls.

    When travelling, make sure that your pet is safe – they should be either in a crate or strapped in with a car seat harness. If you are travelling with your pet in a crate make sure there are no heavy or loose items that can fly around and injure or harm your pet. Put a clip on water bottle in the crate for your pet. Our crates at Somerzby are great for travelling with as they are collapsible and easy to use Click Here to see the range. These crates can also be used as bed/kennel for your pet while on holidays.

    Don’t forget to stop for breaks so your pet can relieve themselves, have a drink, some food and stretch their legs.

    When you arrive at your destination, explore the area and accommodation together. Never leave your pet alone in a strange environment. Make sure your pet is secure; check all gates and fences at your accommodation.

    Consider using a playpen, playpens are a great way to help keep your pet safe and to help you keep an eye on them. Our Somerzby playpens are easy to transport as they are collapsible and come with or without covers. Click here to see the range.

    Once you and your pet have settled and unpacked – it’s time to relax or head to the beach……don’t forget the sunscreen.

  • Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer

    Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer

    Keeping your Pet Cool in the Summer Heat

    Heat and humidity can make some summer days very uncomfortable, not just for us but also for our pets. Most pets are susceptible to similar dangers that we face in the heat- including heatstroke and sunburn.

    For older, small or otherwise fragile pets, at times heat can prove fatal. The RSPCA states that “It is vital that animals have constant access to both water and shade, as heat stress can develop extremely quickly in hot weather during summer.

    Read on for our top tips on keeping your pet/s healthy and cool this summer.

    Basic Pet Heat Safety Guidelines

    Never leave any pet/s confined to a car- (this is dangerous even if the windows are open and the car is parked in the shade).

    Never leave your pets in a situation where they do not have access to shade, ventilation and fresh drinking water.

    Take it easy – On a hot day, do not encourage your pet to run around or play, instead encourage rest and moderate activity only.

    Keep your pet cool with a frozen water bottle.

    Heat Pet Safety - Hydration

    Keeping Your Pet Cool – Our Top Tips

    • Provide plenty of shade, all day long – install shade cloth/ shade sails or use shade umbrellas to provide shelter from the heat. Consider using pet sunscreen to protect from sunburn.
    • Consider allowing outdoor animals inside access to a room cooled by electric fans or air conditioning.
    • Ensure your pet has access to water all day long- keep an eye on their water bowl/s, top it up as needed and try to keep it in the shade. Consider adding extra water bowl/s on a hot day.
    • Add ice cubes to water bowls (Keep an eye on your pet to make sure they are not scared by this and will continue to drink their water)
    • Some pets often tip over their water bowl, consider using one made of heavy material to prevent it tipping (e.g. ceramic).
    • Provide access to water for cooling off in the shade, e.g. a wading pool, or a wet towel. Always supervise your animals around a wading pool.
    • Fill a small plastic bottle with water and leave it in the freezer overnight. The next morning, wrap it in a tool and place it in your pets favorite lounging spot.
    • For indoor pets- keep your curtains closed on a hot day to keep the room cooler.
    • Fill a water bottle or or empty milk bottle with water and freeze. Add it to a rabbit/guinea pig hutch or Chicken coop. Your pets will lay next to the bottle to keep cool.
    • Do NOT use freezer packs/ice bricks as rabbits and other animals can chew them and they may contain hazardous contents.

    Keeping Your Dog or Cat Cool

    dog cat paddling pool

    A paddling pool is great (for supervised play).

    • Elevate your pets bed to allow air to circulate underneath, which will help keep them cool.
    • For cats/dogs with long fur- a haircut may be beneficial, provided they have shelter from the sun so as not to get sunburn. Even just shaving a cats stomach can help.
    • Cats cool themselves down by licking their fur. You can help by using a damp cloth or paper towel to stroke your cat.
    • Always walk your dog in the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat of the day.
    • Consider making iceblocks for your kitty. Place wet cat food and water in the bottom of a plastic bowl or cup and leave overnight to freeze. Place in your cats bowl the next day for a cool tasty treat.

    Keeping your Chickens Cool

    • Provide small bags of ice, wrap them in wet towels and place them in the coop.
    • Spray chooks with a mist pump spray bottle ( if they like it!) or install a bird bath for supervised use.
    • Drape their coop with cool wet towels
    • Consider using ice to cool down the coop, by placing an ice pack underneath the coop.

    Keeping Your Rabbit/Guinea Pigs Cool

    • Provide small bags of ice, wrap them in wet towels and place them in the hutch.
    • Drape their enclosure with cool wet towels
    • Place a ceramic tile or marble square in your pets favorite rest area, provided it is out of the sun. Lying on it will help them cool down.
    • Mist your bunnies ears. Rabbits lose heat through their ears and misting them will help keep the rabbit cool.
    • Consider using ice to cool down the coop, by placing an ice brick underneath their hutch.
    • Fill a water bottle or or empty milk bottle with water and freeze. Add it to a rabbit/guinea pig hutch or Chicken coop. Your pets will lay next to the bottle to keep cool.
    • Do NOT use freezer packs/ice bricks as rabbits and other animals can chew them and they may contain hazardous contents.