Summer in Encinitas is beautiful: Sunny skies, cool coastal breezes, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun with your pets. But as temperatures rise and routines shift, it’s important to be aware of seasonal safety hazards that could affect your furry friends.

Whether you're heading to the beach, hiking Torrey Pines, or enjoying your own backyard, here are the top summer dangers for pets in Southern California and how to keep your pet safe through it all.

1. Overheating and Heatstroke

Even with our coastal breeze, Southern California gets hot - especially inland and during heatwaves. Pets, particularly dogs, can overheat quickly.

Risk factors:

  • Midday walks

  • Long-haired or brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus)

  • Lack of shade or water access

  • Being left in parked cars (even for a minute)

Prevention tips:

  • Walk pets early in the morning or after sunset.

  • Always carry water and take shade breaks.

  • Never leave your pet in the car.

  • Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or collapse.

2. Hot Pavement and Asphalt Burns

Surfaces like sidewalks, parking lots, and blacktop trails in Encinitas can get dangerously hot by mid-morning. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

Try this:
Do the “five-second test.” Place the back of your hand on the pavement - if it’s uncomfortable, opt for grass, shaded paths, or protective booties for your pup.

3. Beach Hazards

Encinitas has some of the most dog-friendly beaches in SoCal (like Cardiff State Beach and parts of Del Mar), but there are still hidden dangers:

Common hazards:

  • Saltwater ingestion → can lead to vomiting or dehydration.

  • Sand impaction → dogs that ingest too much sand while digging or playing.

  • Jellyfish and stingray encounters.

  • Sunburn, especially for short-haired or light-colored breeds.

Pet beach safety tips:

  • Bring fresh water and offer it often.

  • Rinse off salt and sand after playtime.

  • Watch your dog closely if they dig or drink ocean water.

  • Apply pet-safe sunscreen to sensitive areas (like ears and noses).

CANINE FURRY BOY IN A HUMAN BEACH BUTTON UP SHIRT

4. Foxtails and Dry Brush

Hiking trails around San Elijo Lagoon, Los Peñasquitos, and inland Encinitas neighborhoods are beautiful—but they’re also home to foxtails, a barbed grass seed that can burrow into your pet’s skin, ears, nose, or paws.

What to do:

  • Avoid overgrown trails.

  • Check your pet’s coat, paws, and ears after outdoor adventures.

  • Schedule a vet visit if you notice head shaking, sneezing, limping, or redness/swelling.

5. Backyard BBQs and Summer Foods

Pet parents aren’t the only ones who love a good summer cookout. Many summer foods and treats can be dangerous for pets.

Common risks:

  • Corn cobs → choking hazard

  • Grapes and raisins → toxic to dogs

  • Onions and garlic → harmful to red blood cells

  • Bones from ribs or chicken → splinter and cause internal injuries

  • Alcohol → never safe, even in small amounts

Keep pets safe:
Make sure they stay out of trash bins and off the table. Ask guests not to share food unless it’s approved for pets.

6. Parasites and Pests

Summer in Encinitas means a spike in fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, which can carry harmful diseases like heartworm or Lyme.

Protect your pet with:

  • Year-round flea and tick preventives

  • Monthly heartworm medication

  • Regular checks after hikes, especially in wooded or brushy areas

7. Fireworks and Noise Anxiety

Whether it’s July 4th or a local celebration in Moonlight Beach Park, fireworks can be terrifying for pets.

Tips for pet safety during fireworks:

  • Keep pets indoors in a quiet, secure room.

  • Play calming music or white noise.

  • Try anxiety wraps or speak to your vet about calming options if needed.

  • Make sure microchip and ID tags are up to date in case they bolt.

Summer Safety Starts With Awareness

Southern California is a pet-lover’s paradise, but it also comes with unique seasonal hazards. With a little preparation, your pet can stay safe and enjoy the sunshine right by your side.

Have questions about summer safety or want to schedule a wellness check before your next beach or trail day? Contact us at The Drake Center to make sure your pet is ready for a safe and healthy summer.

The Drake Center for Veterinary Care is an AAHA-accredited animal hospital located in Encinitas, CA. The Drake Center loves being a source of information for all pet owners across the country however if you have any questions regarding pet care and do not live in Encinitas, CA or surrounding cities, we encourage you to contact your local veterinarian. The Drake Center may use AI to assist in sharing knowledge; the Drake Center doctors verify any medical information shared in our blogs or website. 

If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (760) 452-3190, or you can email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.