As the temperature rises and summer days become longer, it’s important to remember that our furry friends need extra care and attention during these hot months. Summer brings plenty of fun but can also pose serious risks to dogs and cats. To help you keep your pets safe, we’ve compiled a list of essential summer safety tips to ensure that your dog or cat stays healthy, happy, and cool all season long!
1. Keep Them Hydrated
Just like humans, dogs and cats need plenty of water to stay hydrated during the summer months. With the heat and humidity, dehydration is a real concern for pets. Always ensure that your pet has access to fresh, clean water at all times, especially if they are spending time outdoors. You may need to provide extra water bowls around your home or take portable water bottles with you when you go for walks. If your pet is very active or spends time outdoors, check their water bowl regularly to ensure it hasn’t dried out.
2. Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars
It might seem like a quick errand, but leaving your pet in a hot car—even for just a few minutes—can be deadly. The temperature inside a car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, even with the windows cracked. Pets can suffer heatstroke, dehydration, and organ failure in as little as 10 minutes in a hot car. If you need to run errands, leave your pet at home in a cool, shaded area. It’s always safer to leave your furry friend at home than risk their health in the car.
3. Watch Out for Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency, and dogs and cats can easily become overheated during the summer. Symptoms of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, lethargy, and bright red gums. If you notice these signs, move your pet to a cooler area immediately and offer them water. You can also place cool, damp towels on their body or run cool (not cold) water over them. If symptoms persist, take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. Certain breeds, particularly those with short noses (like pugs and bulldogs), are more prone to heatstroke due to their difficulty in breathing.
4. Keep Them Cool with Proper Shade and Ventilation
If your pet spends time outside, ensure they have access to plenty of shade. Dogs, especially those with thick coats, can get overheated quickly if they are left in direct sunlight. Make sure they have a shaded area to rest in, whether it’s beneath a tree, an umbrella, or a well-ventilated kennel. For indoor pets, use fans, air conditioning, or open windows to ensure proper ventilation in your home. Cats, especially those with long fur, also appreciate cooler spaces during the hotter months, so make sure they have access to shaded spots or cool tiles where they can lie down and relax.
5. Be Mindful of Hot Pavement
The ground can get incredibly hot in the summer, and this can cause serious burns to your pet’s paws. Asphalt and concrete can reach temperatures that are too hot for your pet to walk on comfortably, especially during midday heat. Always check the ground with your bare hand before letting your dog walk on it—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws! Stick to walking early in the morning or later in the evening when the ground has cooled down. If possible, walk your dog on grass or dirt trails, which are cooler.
6. Watch Out for Insects and Plants
Summer means more outdoor activities, but it also brings an increase in insects and potentially harmful plants. Be mindful of your pet’s exposure to bees, wasps, and other insects that could sting or bite. If your pet is stung, watch for swelling or signs of an allergic reaction, and contact your vet immediately. Additionally, many summer plants, such as lilies, daffodils, and oleander, are toxic to cats and dogs. Ensure that your pet is not chewing on plants or flowers that could make them sick. Keep your pets away from areas with unfamiliar plants, especially if you’re unsure about their safety.
7. Groom Your Pets Regularly
A good grooming session isn’t just about keeping your pet looking nice—it can also help them stay cool in the summer! Regular brushing helps to remove excess fur, which can trap heat and make your pet uncomfortable. While some pets, like long-haired dogs, may benefit from a trim, be careful not to shave them too short, as their fur also provides protection from the sun. Cats, particularly long-haired breeds, also benefit from regular grooming to keep their coats free of tangles and to help them regulate their temperature better.
8. Flea and Tick Protection
Fleas and ticks are more active in the summer, and they pose a significant risk to your pet’s health. Not only can fleas cause itching and discomfort, but they can also transmit diseases such as tapeworms. Ticks are notorious for carrying Lyme disease and other infections. Make sure your pets are on an effective flea and tick preventative regimen. If your pet spends time in wooded or grassy areas, be sure to check them for ticks after each outdoor adventure.
9. Be Cautious with Summer Foods
Summer foods, like ice cream, watermelon, and BBQ treats, might seem like a fun snack for your pet, but they can cause digestive issues or even toxicity. Many human foods, such as grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions, are harmful to pets and should be avoided. If you want to treat your pet, opt for pet-safe frozen treats or simple fruits like apple slices (without seeds) or carrots. And always check with your vet before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet.
10. Take Extra Care with Puppies and Seniors
Puppies and senior pets are more vulnerable to extreme temperatures than adults. Puppies are still developing, so they may not be able to regulate their body temperature as well as adult dogs. Similarly, senior pets may have existing health conditions that can make them more prone to heatstroke. Keep both puppies and senior pets cool and hydrated at all times. Limit their outdoor activities, and provide plenty of opportunities for them to rest in cool, shaded areas.
By taking these summer safety tips seriously, you’ll ensure that your pet has a fun and safe season! Don’t forget to keep your furry companions cool, hydrated, and protected from the elements, so you can both enjoy all the wonderful adventures summer has to offer!
What are your favorite summer tips for your pets?
Last modified: February 2, 2025
