Summer brings sunshine, longer days, and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friends. But as much as we love the warmer months, they come with a serious warning for pet owners: heat-related risks can be life-threatening.

Unlike humans, pets can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively. Dogs and cats primarily cool themselves through panting and limited sweat glands in their paws. Without proper care, high temperatures can lead to exhaustion, dehydration, or worse—heatstroke in pets.

In this guide, you’ll learn essential strategies for summer pet safety, from recognising warning signs to keeping pets cool during hot days. These practical tips will help ensure your pet stays happy, healthy, and comfortable all summer long.

Understanding How Heat Affects Pets

Why Pets Struggle in the Heat

Pets—especially dogs—can overheat quickly because:

  • They wear a full coat of fur all year round
  • They only sweat minimally through paw pads
  • Panting becomes ineffective in extreme temperatures
  • Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persians) have a harder time breathing and cooling down

Cats, while more heat-tolerant, are still at risk if left without access to shade or water.

High-Risk Pets

  • Flat-faced breeds (e.g., Boxers, Persians)
  • Senior pets and those with health issues
  • Overweight animals
  • Dark-coated pets that absorb more heat
  • Young puppies and kittens still developing temperature control

Recognising risk factors is the first step toward responsible summer pet safety.

Signs of Heatstroke in Pets

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can develop rapidly. Symptoms include:

  • Heavy or laboured panting
  • Excessive drooling
  • Bright red or pale gums
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Lethargy or collapse
  • Confusion or unresponsiveness

If You Suspect Heatstroke

  1. Move them to a shaded or cool area immediately
  2. Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water
  3. Use damp towels or fans to gently reduce their body temperature
  4. Contact your vet right away—delayed treatment can be fatal

Keeping Pets Cool: At Home and Outdoors

A black and white dog drinking water from a blue bottle held by human hands against a cloudy sky.

1. Hydration is Non-Negotiable

  • Provide fresh, clean water at all times
  • Place multiple bowls around the house and garden
  • Consider using pet water fountains, which encourage drinking
  • Add ice cubes to water bowls on hotter days

2. Provide Shaded Resting Spots

Whether indoors or outdoors:

  • Close curtains or blinds during peak sunlight hours
  • Create shaded areas with umbrellas or canopies in the garden
  • Use cooling mats or raised beds that allow airflow underneath

3. Limit Walks to Cooler Times

  • Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening
  • Avoid pavements during midday heat, as they can burn paws
  • Always carry water on walks
  • Stick to shaded routes or grassy parks

Pro tip: If it’s too hot for your hand on the pavement, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

4. Never Leave Pets in Cars

Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can rise by over 20°C in just 10 minutes. Heatstroke in pets can occur rapidly and is often fatal. Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car—no exceptions.

5. Use Fans, AC, or Cooling Accessories

  • Set up fans or use air conditioning in the hottest parts of your home
  • Try pet-safe cooling vests or bandanas
  • Frozen toys or treats can keep pets entertained and cool at the same time

Summer Pet Safety at the Beach, Park, and Holidays

Woman with sunglasses pets a Dalmatian on a pebble beach under an umbrella, while a man interacts with a black dog in the background.

At the Beach

  • Bring an umbrella or beach tent for shade
  • Offer water frequently
  • Rinse off salt water to prevent skin irritation
  • Watch out for hot sand—just like pavements, it can burn paws

At the Park

  • Avoid mid-day picnics with pets in tow
  • Keep your dog on a lead if they tend to overexert in play
  • Check for foxtails and burrs in fur after park visits
  • Carry a cooling spray or water mist bottle

While Travelling

  • Plan rest stops every 2–3 hours for water and shade
  • Never transport your pet in the boot or an unventilated area
  • Pack essentials: collapsible bowls, water, cool packs, and comfort items

Foods and Treats That Help Beat the Heat

A Jack Russell Terrier sniffs a slice of watermelon held by a human hand on grass.

Frozen and Hydrating Snacks

  • Frozen fruit: Watermelon (seedless), cucumber slices, blueberries
  • Ice cube treats: Add a bit of low-sodium chicken broth or crushed kibble
  • Pet-safe ice cream: Available from many pet shops or made at home with yoghurt and banana

Always check ingredients for xylitol or other harmful substances before sharing.

Grooming and Coat Care in Summer

Should You Shave Your Pet?

Not always. While shaving double-coated dogs (like Huskies or Collies) can seem like a good idea, it actually reduces their ability to regulate temperature and exposes them to sunburn. Instead:

  • Brush regularly to remove excess undercoat
  • Trim long fur around paws and sanitary areas
  • Use a detangling spray or visit a professional groomer for summer-friendly maintenance

For short-coated pets, light brushing keeps skin healthy and stimulates natural cooling oils.

A Cool Pet Is a Happy Pet

Summer can be a joyful time for both pets and owners—but only when the proper precautions are in place. With rising temperatures and longer heatwaves, keeping pets cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s about survival.

Your role as a pet parent is crucial, from providing fresh water and shade to understanding the dangers of heatstroke in pets. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy garden afternoon or heading out on a summer holiday, staying mindful of summer pet safety ensures your four-legged friend stays protected, relaxed, and full of energy.

Take action today: Refresh your pet’s water station, plan walks during cooler hours, and stock up on summer essentials. The sun may be out—but your pet’s safety should always shine the brightest.