The long, hot summer days, with intense heat, humidity, and strong ultraviolet (UV) rays, can take a toll on people and pets alike. You must be extra vigilant about heat’s impact on your furry pal’s well-being. Pets are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke, and specific measures should be taken to ensure their health and safety. To help you plan for the dog days of summer, our Southern Crossing Animal Hospital team offers heat safety tips to protect your whiskered and tail-wagging friends. 

Preparing your pet for summer temperatures

Whether you plan to relax in the yard, hike a new trail, or spend time on the water, you need to take special precautions if your pet will be joining you. You want your furry companion to enjoy themself, so make their health a priority by following these tips: 

  • Keep your pet hydrated — Provide ample shade and water for your pet wherever you go this summer. By always making fresh, cool water available to your pet, you help prevent them from becoming dehydrated. Place water bowls in multiple locations around your home and yard, and take a bowl and bottled water with you whenever you go out with your pet.
  • Provide shade — If you’re relaxing outdoors with your furry pet, ensure they have shade. Sit under shade trees or set up umbrellas or pop-up canopies to keep your pet out of direct sunlight to prevent them from getting a sunburned and overheating.
  • Protect your pet’s paws — Hot pavement, sand, and asphalt can burn your pet’s paws and contribute to overheating. Walk your four-legged friend during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Test surfaces with your hand before allowing your pet to walk on them. Additionally, consider outfitting your pet with dog booties to protect against hot surfaces, sharp objects, and debris.
  • Never leave your pet in the car — Despite having the windows down in a parked vehicle, the temperature inside can soar to dangerous levels within minutes. Leaving your pet in a parked car, even briefly, can be fatal. If you need to run errands and you cannot bring your pet in with you, keep your furry pal safe and leave them at home.
  • Use outdoor cooling products — Cooling mats, vests, or bandanas designed for pets can help regulate their body temperature. You can also use lawn sprinklers or put a few inches of water in a kiddie pool for your dog to cool off while you’re in the yard enjoying the beautiful weather together.
  • Maintain your pet’s grooming needs — Regular grooming, including bathing, haircuts, and brushing, helps prevent your pet’s fur from matting and allows air circulation through your pet’s coat. However, avoid shaving your pet, as their fur provides natural insulation against heat and sunburn.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise — Limit your pet’s activities during hot weather. Shorter, more frequent walks are better than long, strenuous exercise sessions. Monitor your pet for overheating signs and frequently offer them water to ensure they stay hydrated.

Heatstroke signs and prevention for pets

Hyperthermia occurs when a pet’s internal temperature rises to 101.5 degrees, and once their body reaches 105 degrees, a pet is in danger of developing heatstroke. This condition can cause any of these signs:

  • Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
  • Drooling
  • Disorientation
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Seizures or collapse

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, follow these tips: 

  • Move your pet to a cool, shaded area immediately. 
  • Offer small amounts of cool water, avoiding ice-cold water, as it can cause shock.
  • Cool your pet with cool water, focusing on the head, neck, and chest. 
  • Contact our veterinary team immediately because heatstroke is a medical emergency, and professional care is crucial.

Protecting your pet during the dog days of summer requires vigilance and proactive measures. You can protect your four-legged friend from heat-related dangers by ensuring they always have access to water and shade, preventing them from walking on hot surfaces, and being mindful of your pet’s exercise intensity. Remember, when the temperature is extremely hot, the best place for your pet is in an air-conditioned, comfortable indoor environment. Contact our Southern Crossing Animal Hospital team if you have questions about heat safety and your furry friend’s health and well-being.