☀️ Summer in the Valley: Heat Safety Tips for Your Pup 🐾

Summer in Arizona isn’t just warm—it’s a full-on desert sizzle! And while we desert dwellers may be used to triple-digit temps, many of you Pawrents (and your pups) aren’t. Whether you’re a local or new to the Valley, keeping your dog safe in the heat is absolutely essential. And just because your an AZ native, don't think this means you can't learn a little something from our summertime tips and tricks to beating this doggone heat!

Here at Desert Pups, we take summer safety seriously. So we’ve rounded up some easy do’s and definitely do NOTs to help your pup stay cool, comfy, and safe this season.

✅ What To Do This Summer

• Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
  Make sure your pup has access to fresh, cool to room temp water 24/7—whether you’re at home, in the car, or out for a quick walk. Bring a travel bowl and refill often!

• Time Your Walks Wisely
  Only walk your dog early in the morning. If the pavement’s hot enough to fry an egg (and it often is), it’s way too hot for paws. Many Pawrents also like to walk their pups once the sun goes down. Keep in mind that just because the sun is down, doesn't mean that the sidewalk isn't cooled off. It's been cooking in the heat all day so PLEASE beware when going for after-work walks.

• Protect Those Precious Paw Pads
  Before your dog takes a step outside, test the ground with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Booties or paw balm can be your pups new best furends furever (or at least until it cools down in October).

• Create a Cool Zone
  Make sure your pup has access to shade and airflow at all times—whether it’s under a tree, on the patio with a fan, or inside in the A/C.

• Know the Warning Signs
  Heavy panting, drooling, or stumbling? These are early signs of overheating. Move your dog into a cooler area and offer water. Never wait and hope it passes. Let your pups sploot on the tile as their bellies help serve as a temperature-regulating system. Is your pup sleeping on their backs more often? This typically can be a sign that they're heating up during their snoozes, too!

• Frozen Treats FTW
  Ice cubes, frozen bananas, or pupsicles? Yes, please! These cooling treats are great for keeping your pup comfortable and hydrated. Take a dog bowl and throw in a few dog treats and dog-friendly fruits then add a few inches of water before throwing it in the freezer. This now is a great way for your pup to hydrate & cool down, get some stimulation, and get a treat in the process!

• Sometimes, Less is More
  Skip the strenuous activities when temps rise. There’s no shame in a good ol’ indoor cuddle session or puzzle toy afternoon (like doing the frozen bowl treat above!)

🚫 What Not To Do

• DO NOT pour cold water on an overheated dog!
  This one’s huge. It may seem like a good idea, but cold water can shock your pup’s system. Instead, gently cool them with cool (not cold) damp towels on their paws, neck, and belly and bring keep them around A/C immediately.

• No Midday Playtime
  Between 10am and 4pm, it’s just too hot. Opt for indoor enrichment or morning/evening play instead...like coming over to Desert Pups for some fun and furends! 🤭

• Never Leave Them in the Car
  Even with cracked windows, temperatures skyrocket in minutes. Just don’t do it. Ever.

• Don’t Shave Their Coat
  It might seem helpful, but your pup’s fur actually protects them from the sun. A light trim is fine, but no full shaves unless directed by a vet. If you pup already has naturally thin and short hair, opt for dog sunscreen if they'll be outside for any duration.

• Avoid Metal Surfaces
  Hot crates, bowls, and car latches can burn! Stick with shade and soft surfaces.

• Don’t Brush Off Heat Exhaustion Signs
  Vomiting, red gums, excessive drooling, or collapse? These are serious signs. Call your vet ASAP.

• No Off-Leash in the Heat
  Letting your dog run free in the heat—even briefly—can lead to dangerous overheating before you even realize what’s happening.

🐶 Let’s Keep Tails Wagging This Summer

At Desert Pups, we know your dog is more than a pet—they’re family. Summer in the Valley comes with some extra challenges, but with the right knowledge and a little preparation, your pup can enjoy the season safely.

If you’re ever unsure about your dog’s behavior in the heat or need extra advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help keep your pup cool, safe, and happy! And we always have space to add new Pack Members to help beat the heat with our Water Dog Wednesdays, pawfect A/C temps, and all the love to give!

With love and lots of cool belly rubs,
Miss Madison, Hollywood, & The Desert Pups Pack 🐾