The summer season is here - and while it’s a great time for outdoor fun, it’s also when pets are most at risk for heat-related health issues. At The Drake Center, we’re sharing essential hot weather safety tips to help you keep your furry family members cool, healthy, and safe all summer long.

Why Summer Heat Is Dangerous for Pets

Pets love the sunshine, whether it’s on long walks, weekend hikes, or backyard lounging. But rising temperatures can lead to serious and even life-threatening conditions like heatstroke, especially if precautions aren’t taken.

Overheating in pets can result in:

  • Heat exhaustion

  • Heatstroke

  • Collapse

  • Seizures

  • Organ failure

  • Brain damage

  • Death

Certain breeds are especially vulnerable - flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, as well as senior pets, overweight pets, and animals with respiratory conditions, need extra care during warm weather.

Signs of Heatstroke in Pets

Recognizing the early signs of heatstroke can make all the difference. Symptoms of overheating can escalate quickly and require immediate veterinary attention.

Common signs include:

  • Excessive panting

  • Labored or shallow breathing

  • Bright red or purplish gums

  • Thick, sticky saliva

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Lethargy or weakness

  • Uncoordinated movement or collapse

  • Increased heart rate

If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cool environment right away and contact your veterinarian. Even if they seem to recover, internal damage could still be present.

How to Prevent Overheating

The good news is that heatstroke in pets is highly preventable with a few smart precautions:

  • Keep fresh water available at all times, especially during outdoor activities.

  • Provide shade when your pet is outside - even for short periods.

  • Walk your pet early or late in the day when temperatures are lower.

  • Avoid hot pavement and asphalt, which can burn paws and raise body temperatures. Try the five-second rule: if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

  • Never leave your pet in a parked car, even with windows cracked.

  • Use pet-safe cooling products, like vests, mats, and bandanas.

  • Brush your pet regularly to remove excess fur. Ask your vet if a summer trim is appropriate for your pet’s breed.

  • Keep your home cool with fans or air conditioning - especially if your pet is home alone.

  • Be extra cautious with high-risk pets, including senior animals, flat-faced breeds, and pets with medical conditions.

Stay Cool and Stay Safe

Summer can still be full of fun for you and your pets - as long as you stay prepared. By watching for signs of heat stress and adjusting routines for warmer weather, you can help your pet enjoy the season safely.

If you have questions about how to keep your dog or cat safe in the heat, or if you want to schedule a summer wellness exam, reach out to our team at The Drake Center. We’re here to help you and your pets make the most of the sunny days ahead.

Want more seasonal pet health tips? Follow us on Instagram or check out our blog for the latest veterinarian-approved advice.

The Drake Center for Veterinary Care, a staple in Encinitas, CA, is a trusted AAHA-accredited animal hospital. 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.