When summer’s heat settles over the Bay Area, we are not the only ones feeling the burn—our pets suffer too. Dogs and cats are far more vulnerable to high temperatures than we often realize. Unlike humans, pets do not sweat efficiently and can quickly overheat, leading to serious risks like heatstroke, dehydration, painful paws, and sunburns.
As temperatures soar, keeping your four-legged companions comfortable and safe is essential.
Here are six essential tips to help keep your pet cool and safe:
1. Keep Them Hydrated: Hydration is your pet’s first defense against the heat. Whether on a walk or relaxing at home, always provide easy access to fresh, cool water. Consider keeping multiple bowls around the house, and bring a pet water bottle with a built-in bowl on outings.
2. Time Outdoor Activities Wisely: The midday sun can be harsh on pets, so plan walks and playtime for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler and surfaces are less likely to burn their paws. Instead of intense games like fetch, try water-based alternatives like sprinklers or a kiddie pool to help your dog stay active and cool. Always supervise pool time and prevent pets from drinking chlorinated or salty water. After any swim, give them a quick rinse to protect their skin and coat from irritation.
Dogs can also get sunburned, especially those with short or light-colored coats, thin hair, or pink skin. Use pet-safe sunscreen (never human sunscreen) on vulnerable areas like the tips of white ears and the exposed skin on their nose and muzzle. Reapply as needed, particularly after swimming or extended sun exposure.
3. Offer Shade and Cooling Spots: Ensure your pet has a shady place to retreat outdoors and create cool zones inside. While it may be tempting to shave your long-haired pet, their coat actually helps regulate body temperature. A better strategy? Frequent brushing to reduce excess undercoat and promote airflow.
4. Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars: Vehicle interiors can become deadly even on a mild day. A Stanford study found that on a 72°F day, a car’s internal temperature can reach 116°F within an hour. Cracked windows will not help. Heat affects pets faster than people, especially those with flat faces, thick coats, or health issues. If you spot an animal in distress inside a parked car, alert the nearest business or call local authorities. California law protects animals left in dangerous conditions.
5. Test the Pavement: Hot pavement can burn paw pads within seconds. If you cannot hold the back of your hand to the ground comfortably for five seconds, it is too hot for your pet. Stick to cooler surfaces or choose grassy routes when temperatures spike.
6. Know the Signs of Heatstroke: Stay alert for danger signals like excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or even collapse. If your pet shows signs of overheating, move them to a cooler place immediately, apply lukewarm water to their body (never cold), and contact your vet.
This summer, treat your pets with extra care and compassion. A few simple precautions can ensure your best friend enjoys the season safely by your side. When in doubt, it is always better to play it cool!
Dr. Sung is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist. She is currently the Senior Director of Animal Admissions and Wellbeing at Joybound People & Pets.