Summer Safety for Pups: Smart, Simple Ways to Beat the Heat!
- zetter712
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
As summer temperatures stay warm to hot, it's important to keep protecting your pups from heat-related risks. Whether you're planning a weekend adventure or simply adjusting your daily routine, we've got you covered with practical tips and pup-friendly insights to help keep tails wagging safely all season long!
✅ How to Keep Your Pup Safe This Summer
🐕🦺 Walk early or late – Stick to mornings or evenings when temps are cooler.
🚗 Skip the car – If your pup can’t go in with you, it’s safest to leave them at home.
💦 Stay hydrated – Keep cool water available at all times.
🌳 Stick to shade – Avoid direct sun and give your pup places to rest.
🧊 Use cooling tools – Pup-safe popsicles, cooling mats, and shaded play areas help.
👀 Watch for symptoms – Know the early signs of heatstroke so you can act fast.
🐾 Why Pups Are More Vulnerable to Heat
Pups don’t sweat through their skin, but regulate body temperature by:
Panting (primary method)
Sweating lightly through paw pads
But when temperatures soar, this isn’t enough—especially for:
Short-nosed breeds (like Frenchies or Bulldogs)
Puppies and senior pups
Pups with medical conditions or thick coats
🌡️ Fast Facts: Heat & Pups
Normal pup body temp: 101.0°F – 102.5°F (puppies differ)
Starting heatstroke body temp: 104°F
Life-threatening body temps: 107°F and above
🔥 Common Heat Risks
Knowing what to avoid helps you keep your pup cool and comfy:
Leaving your pup in a parked car (even for a minute)
🚫 Car window cracked? Does not make enough of a difference to be safe.
Exercising during hot parts of the day
Walking on hot pavement (can burn paws and radiate heat upward)
Limited shade or water when outdoors
Ignoring signs of heat stress like:
Excessive panting or drooling
Bright red, pale, or purple gums
Vomiting or lethargy
🔥 Paw Pad Awareness:
Pavement can reach 120–150°F on an 85°F day
At just 125°F, burns can occur in under 60 seconds
TIP: Try the 7-second hand test. Place the back of your hand on the pavement—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
🐶 A Season for Safe Summer Fun
Summer is a great time to explore with your pups. With these simple steps to keep being smart about the heat, you’ll keep your pups healthy, happy, and ready for more tail-wagging fun!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pup’s health, diet, or routine. Your veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to your pup's individual health needs.Reminder to always consult your veterinarian. For additional details, click here for American Veterinary Medical Association information.
