Even though Labor Day has passed, warm weather is still with us! As temperatures remain high, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to keep our beloved pets safe and comfortable. Dogs and cats face unique challenges in hot weather since they only sweat through their paws and rely primarily on panting to cool down. Here’s your comprehensive guide to protecting your furry friends during the warmer months.
Essential Hydration Tips
Always provide fresh, cool water for your pets throughout the day. Just like humans, cats and dogs can become dehydrated quickly in hot weather—even short periods outdoors can lead to mild dehydration. Make sure to place multiple water bowls around your home and always bring water and a portable bowl when heading outside.
To boost hydration, consider feeding canned food or adding water to dry kibble at each meal. Watch for these warning signs of dehydration:
- Less energy than usual
- Dry nose or gums
- Excessive panting
- Loss of appetite
A word of caution about shared water bowls: Public hydration stations and communal water bowls can harbor harmful bacteria, parasites and viruses like kennel cough and Giardia, which can spread through saliva and contaminated water. For your pet’s safety, bring a collapsible travel bowl (that can be used for a thermas setup) and your own fresh water, or politely ask vendors for a clean, fresh bowl if needed.
Smart Walking and Exercise Strategies
Exercise timing is everything during hot weather. Walk your dogs in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are naturally cooler. Before heading out, use the 5-second test: place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your pet’s paws.
When possible, choose grassy or shaded paths over hot sidewalks and asphalt. If you must be outside during peak heat hours, consider investing in protective booties to prevent paw pad burns and blisters. Booties, for example made by Ruffwear are great for outdoor adventures and paw protection.
Effective Cooling Measures
Create multiple cooling options for your pets:
- Ensure access to shade, fans and well-ventilated spaces
- Set up a kiddie pool or use a spray bottle with cool (not ice-cold) water
- Pour cool or room temperature water over your dog’s head, back, paws and belly to encourage natural cooling
- Avoid ice-cold water immersion, as this can actually trap heat in their bodies
For indoor cooling, encourage pets to rest on raised beds that allow air circulation underneath. You can also create frozen treats using Kong toys or ice cube molds filled with water or broth (without onion or garlic) mixed with pet-safe treats.
Also, consider breaks. encourage stopping or sitting on walks.
Recognizing and Preventing Heatstroke
Certain pets are at higher risk for overheating:
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds
- Dogs with thick coats
- Overweight pets
- Senior animals
- Puppies and kittens
Know the warning signs of heatstroke:
- Excessive panting and drooling
- Vomiting
- Lethargy or weakness
- Diarrhea
- Pet stopping or laying down during walksHA
If you suspect heatstroke, immediately provide cool water, increase air movement around your pet, move them to shade, and contact your veterinarian right away.
Sun Protection for Pets
Just like humans, pets can suffer from sunburn, especially on sensitive areas. Consider applying dog-specific, pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable spots like the nose, ears, and belly. Choose products with SPF 15 or 30 that block both UVA and UVB rays. Avoid products containing zinc oxide or PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) and opt for unscented. Also, do not shave your dog during summer, the long coat actually protects them against sun and heat.
Pest Prevention
Warm weather brings increased activity from harmful pests. Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes thrive in higher temperatures, with mosquitoes posing the additional risk of transmitting heartworms to both dogs and cats. Ensure your pets are on broad-spectrum parasite preventative medication—this includes indoor-only pets, as parasites can enter homes through screens and even on the bottom of shoes.
Creating the Perfect Outdoor Setup
When spending time outside, always establish a shaded resting area for your pets. Encourage regular breaks during playtime and allow pets to retreat indoors when they need relief from the heat. Remember, if you’re feeling warm, your pet is likely feeling even warmer due to their limited ability to cool down. Also, pay closer attention to senior pets. Senior pets deserve extra attention as they may have reduced ability to regulate their body temperature and may not show obvious signs of distress until they’re in serious trouble.
By following these comprehensive safety measures, you can ensure your pets stay happy, healthy, and comfortable throughout the remaining warm weather. Always trust your instincts—if conditions seem too extreme for you, they’re definitely too extreme for your furry companions.