Seasonal Pet Care Tips for Hot Summers

Ah, summer—the season of sunshine, backyard barbecues, and long walks under blue skies. But while the warm weather invites adventure, it also brings real risks for your four-legged companions. Pets can overheat quickly, burn their paws on hot surfaces, and struggle with dehydration long before we start to feel the heat ourselves.

Whether you’ve got a sun-loving retriever or a nap-in-the-shade kind of cat, summer pet care means staying alert, adjusting routines, and knowing when it’s time to chill (literally). Here’s how to help your pets stay cool, safe, and happy when temperatures rise.

☀️ Watch for Signs of Overheating

Pets can’t sweat like we do. Dogs primarily release heat by panting, and cats groom themselves to cool down. When it’s hot and humid, neither system is very effective—especially for flat-faced breeds (like Bulldogs or Persians), seniors, and pets with medical conditions.

Warning signs of overheating include:

Excessive panting or drooling
Rapid heartbeat
Bright red or pale gums
Lethargy or confusion
Vomiting or diarrhea
Collapsing or stumbling

If you see these signs, move your pet to a cool area, offer water, and call your vet immediately. Heatstroke can set in quickly and become fatal without fast intervention.

💧 Hydration Is Non-Negotiable

In hot weather, hydration is your pet’s first line of defense.

Keep multiple bowls of fresh, cool water around the house and yard
Bring a collapsible water bowl and bottle on every outing
Add ice cubes to water bowls to help lower the temperature
Offer pet-safe frozen treats (like frozen broth cubes or ice cubes with a treat inside)

If your pet isn't drinking much, try flavoring their water with a little low-sodium broth to make it more tempting.

🦮 Adjust Your Exercise Schedule

Midday heat can be brutal—even deadly. Shift your walks and playtime to early morning or after sunset when temperatures are lower.

Short-nosed breeds, senior pets, and dogs with thick coats may need shorter, gentler walks
On extra-hot days, opt for indoor games, like hide-and-seek, training drills, or treat puzzles
Swimming is a great low-impact summer activity (just make sure your pet can swim and always supervise)

Check the pavement: Press the back of your hand to the ground. If you can’t hold it for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

🧊 Cool-Down Hacks for Hot Pets

Sometimes, your pet needs a little help beating the heat.

Provide a cool, shaded space outdoors—tarps and trees offer better airflow than enclosed doghouses
Place a cooling mat or damp towel in your pet’s favorite resting spot
Run a fan or provide AC access for indoor pets
For dogs, try a gentle hose spray or wading pool (as long as they’re not afraid of water)

For cats? Try freezing a water bottle, wrapping it in a towel, and placing it near their nap zone.

🐾 Protect Those Paws

Hot asphalt, sand, and even sidewalks can cause painful burns in seconds.

Walk on grass or shaded paths whenever possible
Use paw wax or protective booties if your dog tolerates them
Moisturize paw pads with pet-safe balms to prevent cracking from hot, dry surfaces

If your dog licks or limps after a walk, check for blisters or redness—and rest those paws.

🚫 Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car—Ever

It’s been said before, but it bears repeating: a parked car can become deadly in minutes, even with windows cracked.

On a 75°F day, the inside of a car can hit 100°F+ in under 10 minutes. Pets left inside can quickly succumb to heatstroke. Always bring them with you or leave them safely at home.

🐕‍🦺 Fur Management: To Trim or Not to Trim

While it may seem helpful to shave your pet down for summer, their coats actually help regulate temperature and protect against sunburn.

Brush regularly to remove excess undercoat and promote airflow
For long-haired breeds, consider a light trim—but never shave down to the skin
Cats groom themselves for temperature control, but regular brushing helps them stay cool and prevents hairballs

And yes—pets can get sunburned, especially those with light skin or short coats. Pet-safe sunscreen exists, but shade is always better.

🐛 Watch for Warm-Weather Hazards

Hot weather brings more than just heat:

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in summer. Stay current with preventative treatments to avoid disease and infestations.
Be cautious with grass treatments or fertilizers—many are toxic to pets if ingested or even walked through
Grilling and picnics can lead to garbage or scraps left around that are unsafe (bones, corn cobs, greasy food, alcohol)

Keep an eye on your pet during outdoor events—and teach a solid “leave it” command if you haven’t already.

🌴 Let Summer Be a Breeze, Not a Burnout

With a little extra awareness and planning, your pet can enjoy summer just as much as you do. The key is to respect the heat, adjust your routines, and give your furry friend plenty of options to cool off, hydrate, and relax.

Because whether they’re a sunbather or a shade-seeker, every pet deserves a summer filled with wagging tails, purring naps, and safe, sunny memories.