As temperatures climb, ensuring our pets’ well-being is more important than ever. At Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital, we understand that hot weather can pose significant challenges for our furry companions and that pet owners must be vigilant about their pets’ comfort and safety.

Summer days are perfect for play and adventure, but whether you’re lounging in the backyard or hiking in the woods, follow our simple precautions, which can make a big difference in keeping your dogs and cats cool and comfortable.

Navigating hot weather with your dog

Dogs can struggle with high temperatures and may suffer from heat stress or heatstroke, particularly heat-sensitive breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, who have short noses and compromised airways. Watch for signs like heavy panting, drooling, and weakness, and follow these tips:

  • Ensure your dog stays hydrated — Your dog must always have access to plenty of fresh water in the house and the yard.
  • Provide shade and shelter — Provide a cool, shaded place for your dog to relax. A tent or large umbrella can work.
  • Take time to cool off — Walk your dog in the cooler early mornings or late evenings and avoid hot pavement.
  • Play cool tricks — Use fans, cooling mats, or wet towels to keep your dog cool. A splash in a kiddie pool can be refreshing.
  • Never leave pets in cars — Cars can quickly become dangerously hot, so never leave your dog in a parked car. Parking in the shade and cracking the windows makes no difference.

Heat protection for your dog

Different dogs have different needs when it comes to staying cool in the heat. Short-nosed breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, require extra care, because they overheat more quickly because of their shorter airways that prohibit effective panting.

Thick-coated pets may benefit from a summer trim to reduce their insulation, but they must still have easy access to shade and plenty of water.

Older dogs and puppies are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures and need close monitoring to ensure they stay comfortable and hydrated throughout the hot weather.

Navigating hot weather with your cat

Cats can also suffer from heat stress or heatstroke, and signs include heavy panting, drooling, and lethargy. Cats rely on cool spots and grooming to stay cool. Follow these tips to keep your cat safe this summer:

  • Keep your cat hydrated — Provide multiple water bowls around your home and in your yard. Add ice cubes to keep water cool.
  • Cool them off indoors — Create cool indoor spots with fans, air conditioning, or cooling mats.
  • Cool them off outdoors — Ensure outdoor cats have shaded areas for resting and, if possible, limit outdoor time during peak heat.
  • Play it smart — Engage in gentle play during the cooler times of day.

Heat protection for your cat

Cats’ requirements for staying cool are based on their coat length, age, and health condition. Long-haired cats may need regular grooming to manage their thick fur, which would otherwise trap heat and make them uncomfortable. Older cats, kittens, and short-nosed feline breeds (e.g., Persians) are particularly sensitive to high temperatures and require extra care to ensure they stay cool and hydrated.

Cats with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart or respiratory issues, also are more heat-susceptible and need a comfortable, cool environment to help them cope with the warmer weather.

Pet heatstroke: Critical steps for immediate care

If your pet shows heatstroke signs, quick action is crucial to help them cool down and recover. Follow these steps:

  • Move them to a cool area — Relocate your pet to a shaded or cool indoor space to lower their body temperature.
  • Cool them down — For cats, gently pat their fur with a damp cloth and place a fan with a gentle breeze nearby. For dogs, apply cool—never cold—water to their body, focusing on the head, neck, and under the legs.
  • Offer water — Ensure pets have water to drink, but do not force them if they’re not interested.
  • Seek veterinary help — If your pet’s condition doesn’t improve quickly or they show severe symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Keeping your pets safe during hot weather involves understanding their needs, keeping them cool and comfortable by ensuring they have adequate water and cool resting places, and taking the appropriate precautions against heatstroke.

If you have any concerns about your pet’s ability to cope with the heat or need personalized advice, contact Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital. Our experienced team is here to provide professional care and keep your pets cool and safe during the hot—sometimes hazardous—summer.