Summer Pet Safety: Heat, Water, and Travel Tips

Summer brings unique hazards for pets. Every year, dogs die from heatstroke in hot cars, on hot pavement, and even in backyards without adequate shade. Here's how to keep your pets safe during the warmest months.

Never Leave Pets in Cars

This cannot be emphasized enough: cars heat up rapidly, even with windows cracked.

• On an 85°F day, car interior reaches 102°F in 10 minutes
• After 30 minutes, it can reach 120°F
• Cracking windows does not significantly slow heating
• Dogs can suffer irreversible organ damage or death within minutes

Hot Pavement

Asphalt and concrete absorb heat and can burn paw pads:

• If the pavement is too hot for your hand (5 seconds), it's too hot for paws
• Walk in early morning or evening when surfaces are cooler
• Stick to grass or shaded paths
• Consider dog booties for unavoidable hot surfaces
• Watch for limping, licking paws, or reluctance to walk

Signs of Heatstroke

Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke:

• Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
• Drooling, thick saliva
• Bright red tongue and gums (may turn blue/gray as it worsens)
• Weakness, staggering, collapse
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Body temperature above 104°F

If You Suspect Heatstroke

1. Move pet to shade or air conditioning immediately
2. Apply cool (not ice cold) water to neck, armpits, and groin
3. Place cool, wet towels on these areas
4. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink
5. Get to a vet immediately - heatstroke can cause organ damage even after cooling

Water Safety

Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and pools and beaches have hazards:

• Never assume your dog can swim - supervise all water activities
• Use a dog life jacket for boating or if your dog isn't a strong swimmer
• Teach your dog where pool steps are so they can exit
• Rinse off after swimming to remove chlorine or salt
• Watch for signs of water intoxication from swallowing too much water
• Don't let dogs drink from pools, oceans, or stagnant water

Outdoor Exercise Adjustments

• Exercise in early morning or after sunset
• Carry water and a collapsible bowl on walks
• Reduce intensity and duration in hot weather
• Watch brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs) extra carefully - they overheat faster
• Provide outdoor shade and fresh water at all times

Traveling with Pets

Summer road trips with pets require planning:

• Never leave pets unattended in vehicles
• Secure pets with a crate or seatbelt harness
• Pack food, water, medications, and vet records
• Stop every 2-3 hours for bathroom breaks and stretching
• Research pet-friendly hotels and rest stops along your route
• Ensure your pet's microchip and ID tags are up to date