Summer Safety Tips for Pets: Keeping Your Dogs Cool in the Heat
With summer in full swing and temperatures climbing, it’s the perfect time to get outside—but it’s also the season when our pets are at the highest risk for heat-related illness. Dogs and cats don’t release heat as efficiently as humans. While we sweat to cool down, our furry friends primarily rely on panting to regulate body temperature, which is far less effective. That’s why hot weather can quickly become dangerous for them.
Here at Hebron Veterinary Hospital, we want to help you keep your pets safe and comfortable all summer long. Here are some important tips to help prevent overheating and keep tails wagging through the warm months:
Pets at Higher Risk for Heat Stress
Some pets are more vulnerable to heat than others. Watch them closely and take extra precautions if your pet falls into one of these categories:
- Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced pets) like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, and Persian cats have compromised airways and struggle more in heat.
- Very young or senior pets, who are less efficient at temperature regulation.
- Pets with medical conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, or diabetes.
- Overweight animals, who retain more body heat.
- Thick- or double-coated breeds like Huskies, Malamutes, Golden Retrievers, and Australian Shepherds.
- High-energy or working dogs, who may not self-limit activity, even in extreme heat.
Hydration Is Key
Dehydration can lead to serious heat-related illness. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, cool water both indoors and outdoors. A few hydration tips:
- Add ice cubes to their water bowl or offer frozen treats.
- Take portable water and a collapsible bowl on walks or hikes.
- Add water to their kibble or make frozen treats with water and low-sodium broth if they’re not big drinkers.
Keep Their Environment Cool
Cool spaces help pets regulate their temperature:
- Indoors, use fans or air conditioning when possible. Well-ventilated rooms are important.
- Outdoors, provide shaded areas and avoid letting pets lie in the direct sun.
- Cooling mats, elevated beds, or access to tile floors can also help.
- Bringing a dog inside to a house without AC won’t cool them down fast enough if they’re overheating.
Be Smart About Exercise
During the hottest parts of the day, skip the walk:
- Stick to early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
- Avoid strenuous play like fetch or long hikes in extreme heat.
- Hot pavement and asphalt can burn paw pads—use your hand to check or consider protective booties.
Know the Signs of Overheating
Heat stroke in dogs can be deadly and develops quickly. Watch for:
- Excessive panting or trouble breathing
- Drooling
- Staggering or uncoordinated walking (ataxia)
- Lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
What To Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke
If you think your pet is overheating:
- Move them immediately into a cool environment.
- Wet their body with cool (not ice cold) water, focusing especially on their paw pads, belly, and armpits.
- Use a fan to promote evaporation.
- Do not use ice water—this can cause shock.
- Get them to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital as fast as possible.
Every second counts. Heat stroke can lead to organ failure, seizures, and long-term neurological damage if not treated quickly.
Bottom Line
Your pets count on you to help them stay safe in the heat. Keep them hydrated, give them a cool place to rest, avoid mid-day activity, and know the signs of heat-related illness. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and seek veterinary care immediately.
If you have questions about summer safety or suspect your pet may be suffering from heat stress, call us right away at Hebron Veterinary Hospital. We’re here to help.
We hope you and your furry family enjoys the end of summer!
Best Wishes,
Dr. Mordasky