Summer is a great time for long walks, beach trips, and outdoor adventures with your furry friend. But while you’re soaking up the sun, your dog could be struggling with the heat. Dogs don’t sweat like we do and can quickly become overheated, which can lead to heat exhaustion or even deadly heatstroke.
At Animal Care Clinic, we care deeply about your pet’s safety and comfort. Below are our top veterinarian-approved tips to help you keep your dog cool, hydrated, and happy all summer long.
1. Know the Signs of Overheating
Before diving into prevention, it's important to recognize the warning signs of heat stress in dogs. Common symptoms include:
Excessive panting or drooling
Rapid heartbeat
Weakness or unsteadiness
Bright red gums or tongue
Vomiting or diarrhea
Collapse or seizures
If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a cooler place immediately and contact your vet or emergency clinic right away.
2. Avoid the Hottest Times of Day
The pavement isn’t the only thing heating up in the summer sun. Temperatures can climb rapidly between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., especially on humid days. If you’re heading out for a walk, aim for early morning or late evening when the weather is cooler. Bonus: your dog will enjoy a longer, more comfortable walk.
3. Stay Hydrated – Always
Hydration is critical during hot weather. Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh, clean water—whether at home, on walks, or during travel. For an extra refreshing treat, try dropping a few ice cubes into the bowl or freezing chicken broth in an ice tray as a cooling snack.
Portable water bottles or collapsible bowls are great to bring along for walks, hikes, or trips to the park.
4. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
This one’s simple but vital: Never leave your dog alone in a parked car. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures can skyrocket in minutes. A car can reach over 120°F on a 75°F day—and that’s a death trap for your dog.
If you’re running errands and can’t bring your pup with you inside, it’s best to leave them safely at home.
5. Provide Shade and Cool Resting Spots
If your dog spends time outdoors, make sure they have a shady, well-ventilated place to rest. Trees, covered patios, umbrellas, or pop-up tents can provide a break from the sun. You can also lay out a cool, damp towel or invest in a cooling mat for added comfort.
Inside the home, keep blinds closed and ceiling fans or A/C running during peak heat hours. If your dog sleeps in a crate, place it in the coolest room of the house.
6. Switch Up Your Exercise Routine
Dogs still need exercise in the summer, but intensity and timing matter. Shorten your walks or opt for low-impact activities like:
Light strolls in the early morning
Indoor fetch or puzzle toys
Swimming in a dog-safe pool or lake
Avoid intense activities like long runs, bike rides, or rough play during midday heat.
7. Grooming: Yes, But Don’t Shave
Some owners think shaving their dog’s coat will help them stay cool—but this can backfire. A dog’s coat actually helps regulate body temperature and protect skin from sunburn. Instead of shaving, schedule regular grooming to remove loose undercoat, mats, and tangles, which can trap heat.
Ask your vet or groomer about the best grooming routine for your dog’s breed and coat type.
8. Try Doggy Cooling Products
There’s a growing market for dog-specific cooling gear, and many of these products can help beat the heat:
Cooling vests or bandanas that hold water and provide evaporative cooling
Cooling mats or beds made with pressure-activated gel
Kiddie pools filled with shallow water for supervised playtime
Just be sure to supervise your dog when using any new product and monitor for signs of discomfort.
9. Watch the Pavement Temperature
If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Asphalt and concrete absorb heat quickly and can cause painful burns on your pet’s paw pads. Test the pavement with the back of your hand for 5 seconds before walking.
Stick to grassy areas, dirt trails, or shaded sidewalks, and consider using dog booties if walks are necessary during warmer hours.
10. Plan Ahead When Traveling
If you’re taking a summer road trip or vacation, factor your dog into all plans. Research dog-friendly hotels, parks, and beaches ahead of time, and pack essentials like:
Portable water
Cooling gear
Shade tents
Paw protection
Vet records and emergency contact info
During car rides, make frequent stops for water and potty breaks, and never let your dog ride in the truck bed or enclosed areas without ventilation.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Cool, Keep It Safe
Summer fun doesn’t have to mean summer risk. With just a few mindful adjustments, you can protect your dog from the dangers of overheating and ensure they stay cool, happy, and healthy all season long.
If you have any concerns about your pet’s health during the warmer months—or if your dog is a flat-faced breed, senior, overweight, or has a medical condition—reach out to our team at Animal Care Clinic. We're always here to help.
Need Help or Have Questions?
📍 Visit us at 106 N. Eisenhower Dr. in Junction City
📞 Call us: 785-762-5631
🌐 Book an appointment online here
Stay cool and stay safe out there—and give your pup a belly rub from all of us!