Tropical Heat: How to Protect Your Four-Legged Friend from Overheating

Summer heat can be very dangerous for dogs, cats, and other pets. Animals can overheat faster than people, and the consequences may be serious. Overheating can quickly become a life-threatening condition, so prevention and a quick response at the first signs of trouble are essential.

We have prepared a simple overview of the most important rules to help keep your pets safe during hot days.

Water Comes First

Make sure your pet has constant access to fresh water. Change the water regularly and, during very hot weather, check that your pet always has enough to drink. You can add an ice cube to the bowl to help cool the water gradually, but the water should not be ice-cold.

Adjust Your Walking Routine

Avoid long walks during the hottest part of the day. Walk your dog early in the morning and later in the evening, when temperatures are lower. During the day, keep outings short and only for necessary toileting.

Pay special attention to older animals, puppies, overweight pets, animals with heart or breathing problems, and short-nosed breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, and boxers. These animals tolerate high temperatures less well.

Beware of Hot Asphalt

Asphalt and pavement can become extremely hot in summer and may cause painful burns to your pet’s paws. You can use a simple test: place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you cannot keep it there comfortably for about 5 seconds, the surface is not safe for your dog’s paws.

In that case, avoid hot paths and choose grass, shade, or walks during cooler parts of the day.

Create a Cool Place at Home

At home, it helps to keep windows shaded, close curtains or blinds, and provide your pet with a cooler place to rest. Cooling mats or a damp towel placed underneath the animal can also help.

However, do not cover the animal from above with a wet towel. This may prevent heat from escaping and can make overheating worse.

Never Leave an Animal in a Car

Never leave your pet in a parked car — not even for a few minutes and not even with a window slightly open. The inside of a car can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly, and staying inside can become life-threatening for an animal.

This applies even when the outside temperature does not seem extremely high.

What to Do If You Suspect Overheating

Warning signs of overheating may include heavy or rapid breathing, lethargy, weakness, poor coordination, excessive drooling, vomiting, collapse, or altered consciousness.

If you suspect that your pet is overheating:

1. If the animal is conscious and it is safe to do so, start cooling it with water — not ice-cold water.
2. Move the animal into the shade or to a cool place.
3. Offer water, but do not force the animal to drink.
4. Contact a veterinarian.

When dealing with overheating, remember this simple rule: wet your pet first, then call a vet. Starting cooling immediately can be crucial.

Prevention Is Key

During extreme heat, avoid taking animals on unnecessary journeys, shopping trips, or long outings. What may still feel manageable for a person can be very demanding for a dog or another animal.

Be considerate of your four-legged friend during hot days and provide calm, shade, water, and a safe environment.

If you suspect overheating or have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.