How to Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer

There's no better time than summer for enjoying outdoor family activities, from camping in the woods to long days at the beach. If you're bringing your furry family member along, however, there are several risks you should be aware of. Dr. Ruth MacPete, aka "The Pet Vet," shares these easy-to-follow, common-sense tips to help your pet stay safe during summer.

Keep them cool. 

Pets can quickly overheat and develop heat exhaustion on a hot day. Whenever possible, keep your pets inside where it's nice and cool. If your pet has to be outside, be sure that they have access to shade and water, and avoid strenuous exercise. Keep walks short and head out in the early morning or evening when it is cooler. Be extra careful with brachycephalic, or flat-nosed dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers and Boxers, as they are even more heat-intolerant than other breeds.

Keep them hydrated. 

When it's hot, pets drink more water than usual, and water evaporates faster, so make sure they always have plenty of water. Leave extra bowls of water out and refill them frequently. Remember to bring water for yourself and your dog when going on outdoor excursions or walks, too, and don't forget to bring a portable bowl for your dog. To encourage your pets to drink more, consider getting a pet water fountain or try adding ice to their water to make it cool and refreshing. Look for pet-safe frozen treats that will also help turn the temperature down.

Protect their feet. 

Before going on a walk, check the ground to be sure it is not too hot for your pet's feet. Asphalt, concrete and sand can get very hot and actually burn your pet's feet. If it's too hot for your bare feet, it's too hot for theirs. If you have to walk your dog when the ground is hot, consider getting them dog booties to protect their pads, or walk them on grass or dirt.

Never leave your pet in a hot car. 

Never leave your pet unattended in a car when it's warm outside. Even with the windows rolled down, your car can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes. It's better and safer to leave them at home if you are going somewhere that doesn't allow pets. 

If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, get them out of the heat, cool them down gradually by wetting them with cool water and immediately take them to your veterinarian for additional treatment. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can be fatal. 

 

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2025. All rights reserved.

 

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