Ah, summer…the season of sunbathing, sprinkler zoomies, and suspiciously crunchy things on the sidewalk. While you may be ready to fire up the grill and bask in the rays, your pet is probably plotting an escape to the nearest shady spot.
Hot weather can be rough on our four-legged companions. What feels like a lovely stroll to us can be a major “nope” for pets covered in fur and walking on heat-absorbing paws. Here’s how to keep your pets cool, comfy, and crisis-free when the temperatures start to climb.
Provide Fresh Water and Shade
Always ensure your pets have access to cool, fresh water, especially when outside. Toss in a few ice cubes to keep it colder longer.
Offer ample shade, whether it’s a tree, umbrella, or well-ventilated shelter. Avoid dog houses, which can trap heat and become dangerously hot.
Limit Outdoor Activities
Take walks or play early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and offer plenty of water.
Be cautious of hot surfaces like asphalt, which can quickly burn sensitive paw pads.
Car Safety for Pets
Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a car can rise to deadly levels in moments, even with the windows cracked or in the shade.
On an 85-degree day, the inside of a car can reach over 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes—putting your pet at risk of heatstroke, brain damage, or even death.
If you need to run errands and can’t bring your pet inside with you, it’s safest to leave them at home.
Prevent Heatstroke
Watch for signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and bright red gums.
If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler area, offer water, and seek immediate veterinary care.
You can also gently wet their body with cool (not ice-cold) water, focusing on the head, ears, paws, and belly to help lower their body temperature safely.
Protect Those Paws
Before heading out, test the pavement with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.
Use protective booties to shield paws from hot surfaces.
Stick to grass or shaded paths whenever possible.
Other Summer Safety Tips
Keep your pet’s coat trimmed (but never shaved). Their fur helps protect against heat and sunburn.
Use pet-safe sunscreen on areas with thin or light-colored fur.
Watch what your pet might try to eat during outdoor fun…especially around barbecues, trash, or dropped food.
Make sure vaccinations and parasite preventatives are up to date. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are more active during the warmer months.
Make This a Safe and Happy Summer
As the temperatures rise, a little extra care goes a long way. Whether it’s planning cooler walks, avoiding hot pavement, or simply keeping water bowls full, small choices can make a big difference.
Our pets rely on us to keep them safe, so let’s make this summer a joyful, comfortable season for everyone!
