Keeping Your Pet Safe in the Summer Heat
By Dr. Feargus McConnell
July 19th 2025
Keeping your pet safe during summer is essential, especially as temperatures climb across the country. Here’s a guide to help you keep your dog or cat safe, based on up-to-date veterinary advice.
Heatstroke and Overheating
Pets can overheat quickly. Dogs and cats don’t sweat like humans; they rely mostly on panting to cool down. If their body temperature rises above 104°F, it can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening emergency. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse. Some pets are at higher risk, such as older animals, overweight pets, and short-nosed breeds like bulldogs and pugs.
Hydration and Shade
Make sure fresh water is always available indoors and outdoors. If your pet is outside, provide shaded areas or bring them indoors during peak heat hours. Even a few minutes in a hot backyard without shade can be risky.
Safe Exercise Timing
Avoid walking your dog in the middle of the day when the sun is at its strongest. Early mornings and evenings are best. A good rule of thumb: if the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. When temperatures hit the 90s, it’s safest to limit outdoor activity altogether.
Cooling Your Pet
If your pet gets too hot, bring them into a cool space immediately. Wet them with room-temperature water and use fans if available. Never use ice or freezing water. Stop cooling once your pet's temperature drops to around 103°F. Training your dog to dip their head or body in water can also be a helpful way to cool down quickly on hot days.
Water Safety
Always supervise pets near water. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even strong swimmers can get tired. Life jackets are a smart idea for boating or deep water. Avoid letting your dog drink pool or salt water, which can lead to digestive issues or salt poisoning.
Yard Hazards and Toxins
Keep pets away from fertilizers, weed killers, and certain garden plants like lilies and azaleas, which are toxic. If you open windows to let in air, make sure screens are secure to prevent cats from falling out.
Parasites and Preventive Care
Warm weather is peak season for fleas, ticks, and heartworm. Use vet-recommended parasite preventatives year-round. Schedule a vet checkup in early summer to make sure your pet’s vaccinations and preventatives are up to date.
Noise Sensitivity and Fireworks
Fireworks and loud summer events can stress pets out. Create a calm, quiet space indoors where they can retreat. Play soft music and keep curtains closed. If your pet has a history of anxiety, talk to your vet ahead of time about calming options.
Pay Attention to Behavior
Watch for signs your pet is struggling with heat. These include heavy panting, drooling, weakness, red or pale gums, or vomiting. Every pet is different, and some may need more help coping than others.
Final Tips
Keep water available
Walk during cool hours
Avoid hot pavement
Know signs of overheating
Supervise near water
Store garden chemicals safely
Use flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives
Create a safe space during fireworks
Stay safe this summer and help your pet enjoy the season comfortably.
Disclaimer
The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified pet health provider with any questions you may have regarding your pet's health or medical condition. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
The information provided here is based on current veterinary research and best practices, but individual pet health needs may vary. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information, but we cannot guarantee that all content is complete, current, or applicable to your pet's specific circumstances.
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