5 Tips on How to Keep Your Pets Cool Without AC in the Arizona Heat

When your air conditioner isn't working, it's not only you who suffers in the heat—your pets need help staying cool too! A broken AC can cause extreme overheating and even heat stroke in your pets—they wear fur coats, after all.

The pros at Patrick Riley Cooling, Heating, & Plumbing help keep pets cool through consistent and efficient AC repair, installation, and maintenance services. If you’re wondering how to keep pets cool without AC, read our tips to keep your furry friends comfortable and hydrated as you look for a new AC unit or wait for emergency AC repair. In our guide, we also share how often to change AC filters with pets and other heat-saving tips.

How to Keep Pets Cool Without AC

#1 - Keep Their Bowl Full of Cold Water

Maintain a constant supply of cold water for your pets to beat Arizona’s heat when the AC is down. Hydration helps keep your pets cool, maintain energy levels, and regulate body temperature. Make it a point to check your pets’ water bowls frequently, and refill them with fresh, cold water when needed. Adding ice cubes to a water bowl can also help keep the water cooler for a longer period of time.

#2 - Open Your Windows and Run Box Fans

Having trouble keeping your pet cool without AC? During breezy days, open windows and doors to allow air to circulate, providing some relief for your pets. Box fans are an excellent portable cooling solution that you can easily move from room to room as needed. These fans not only help keep your home cooler but also provide a secure alternative to leaving windows open when you're not at home.

If your AC breaks down during a 100-plus degree day, consider temporarily moving your family into a friend’s or family member’s home. Pets, as well as younger and older family members, can suffer from heatstroke and face health issues when it’s too hot.

Consider working with Patrick Riley Cooling, Heating, & Plumbing for same-day emergency AC repair to keep your family and your pets safe.

#3 - Create Cooling Packs with Your Freezer

Dogs and cats don’t have as many sweat glands as we do, so they depend on their tongues for heat regulation—that’s why they pant and drool. Take advantage of your freezer to create cold packs for your pets to lay on, munch on, and have near to cool off when the AC isn’t working. Placing cold objects around your pet’s body, head, belly, or neck, can support their panting.

• Lay on: Ice packs, frozen towels, or frozen water bottles
• Munch on: Ice cubes, frozen yogurt treats, or other pet-safe snacks that can be frozen
• Have near: Frozen towels or rags

#4 - Trim Your Pet's Coat

If your pet has a thick coat, consider scheduling an emergency grooming session to trim their coat when you’re trying to keep pets cool without AC. When trimming your pet’s coat, leave a short coat that’s about an inch thick to protect them from UV rays. Regular grooming also helps remove loose hair, which can improve air circulation around your pet's skin, further aiding in temperature regulation.

#5 - Have Fun in the Water

Most dogs love water! If you’re exploring how to keep your pet cool without AC, incorporate water play into your pet's day. Use a kiddie pool, sprinkler, or hose to create a refreshing play area for your pet. Be mindful of the hot water that may initially come from the hose and let it run for a few moments to reach a safe temperature for your pet.

Regular baths or showers with cool water can provide immediate relief for your pet throughout the summer. Be sure, though, to always use cool (not freezing) water to avoid shock.

After Your AC Repair Appointment

After Patrick Riley Cooling, Heating, & Plumbing fixes your AC, it’s important to practice HVAC maintenance on a regular basis to keep your home and pets cool. Here’s how:

Change AC Filters

Clean air filters trap hair, bacteria, and other particles to stop contaminants from flying around your home. Dirty AC filters can cause health risks to your family and pets.

How often to change AC filter with pets

How often should you change your AC filter with pets? Change your AC filter every one to two months with pets. The number of pets and family members' allergies may affect how often you'll want to change your AC filter with pets in the house. Investing in an AC maintenance plan can also help extend the lifetime of your AC to keep your pets cool, happy, and healthy.

Consider an Air Purifier

An air purifier complements your AC by capturing pet dander, dirt, and bacteria that may enter your home. Choose either a free-standing unit or one that connects to your AC system as added insurance against contaminants and to enhance air quality for your family and pets.

Cool Your Pet Palace with Patrick Riley Cooling, Heating, & Plumbing

A working AC is vital for keeping everyone cool and healthy. Contact Patrick Riley Cooling, Heating, & Plumbing to repair your AC unit and ensure a comfortable home for your pets. Our technicians are dedicated to keeping pets cool during times of AC emergencies and helping with regular AC maintenance, like frequent AC filter changes with pets.