Heat Safety for Pets: What Every Owner Should Know

Canadian summers are short and we all want to make the most of sunny days, but rising temperatures can also introduce serious health risks for both people and animals. Heat-related illness can develop quickly, particularly during periods of high heat and humidity, and can impact pets more than we might expect.

Understanding how pets regulate body temperature, recognizing warning signs of overheating and heat stroke, and taking preventative measures can help keep your companion safe all season long. Here is our helpful guide to ensuring you and your pets enjoy summer to the fullest, while mitigating health risks.

Why Pets Overheat Faster Than Humans

Unlike people, pets have very limited ability to cool themselves through sweating. Dogs primarily regulate body temperature through panting, while cats rely on grooming and seeking cooler environments. Some pets are at higher risk of overheating, including:

• Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats, and Himalayan cats

• Breeds with long or very thick fur that thrive in cold environments (such as Great Pyrenees, Samoids, Huskies, Malamutes, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, Newfoundland Dogs, Akitas, etc.)

• Pets with thick or double coats

• Senior pets

• Puppies and kittens

• Overweight pets

• Pets with heart or respiratory conditions

Even healthy pets can experience discomfort or overheating in hot, humid conditions if precautions are not taken.

Warning Signs of Overheating

Early intervention can prevent a medical emergency. Watch for:

• Excessive panting

• Increased drooling OR dry nose/tongue

• Lethargy or weakness

• Bright red gums

• Elevated heart rate

• Seeking shade

• Disinterest in play/activity

If you see any of these signs, move your pet to a cool area immediately and offer plenty of room-temperature drinking water.

When to Call a Veterinarian

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary care. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately if your pet experiences:

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Difficulty walking or loss of coordination

• Collapse

• Seizures

• Difficulty breathing

• Unresponsiveness

The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome. Cooling their body immediately can significantly improve treatment outcomes: In transport to the vet, ensure you have the windows open or air conditioning in the car. Draping your pet in moistened, room-temperature towels can help to regulate their body temperature quickly. 

What to Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke

If your pet is showing signs of heat stroke:

• Move them immediately to a cool, shady, or air-conditioned area

• Offer room-temperature drinking water

• For dogs, wet the paws, belly, and groin area with cool water

• Place room-temperature wet towels over the body during transport to the veterinarian

Avoid using ice, ice baths, or very cold water, as rapid cooling can shock their system and increase risk of complications.

Contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately, and bring your pet in as quickly as possible. According to many experts, implementing safe cooling immediately and during transport to veterinary care can improve recovery outcomes by up to 80%.

Keeping Pets Cool During Summer

Simple preventative measures can make a significant difference. Helpful tips include:

• Walk pets during cooler morning or evening hours - avoid peak sun (usually 12-5pm)

• Provide fresh drinking water at all times - fountains and hoses can help to entice them to drink

• Ensure constant access to shade during outdoor activities

• Take frequent breaks during exercise, play, and walks

• Never leave pets unattended in vehicles

• Maintain airflow or air conditioning in the house if they are alone during the hottest parts of the day.

For pets spending time outdoors, monitoring activity levels and avoiding peak heat periods is especially important.

Common Summer Hazards Pet Owners Often Miss

Heat safety goes beyond air temperature alone. Be mindful of:

• Hot pavement that can burn paw pads

• If you can’t comfortably place your hand on the asphalt or sidewalk for 5 seconds, it is not safe for your pet’s paws.

• Fleas and ticks during outdoor activities (some suggestions for Flea & Tick prevention below!)

• Long car rides without adequate ventilation or air conditioning

• Overexertion during hikes, beach days, or extended play sessions

Many heat-related emergencies occur during activities that seem routine, making preparation and monitoring especially important.

Building a Summer Safety Kit

A few simple supplies can help make summer outings safer and more enjoyable. The AK-9 Aqua2Go Portable Travel Pet Water Bottle   makes it easy to provide fresh water during walks, hikes, and road trips.

Parasite prevention should also be part of your summer plan. Products such as NexGard Spectra help protect against fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal parasites, while the  Tickless Classic Pet Ultrasonic Tick & Flea Device   offers an additional chemical-free option for outdoor adventures.

 

Pets with exposed skin and pink noses & paws may benefit from products like   Zanimo Summer Lotion SPF 20  , which provides protection during prolonged sun exposure.  

For a cooling treat, consider offering PureBites Freeze-Dried Wild Salmon Treats for Dogs or   Catit Creamy Lickable Cat Treats  , made in Canada! Many pet owners safely freeze these treats during hot weather for a refreshing reward after outdoor activities, and the Catit treats freeze like a popsicle!

Enjoy Summer Safely

Summer adventures can be enjoyable and enriching when approached with preparation and awareness. By recognizing the signs of overheating, avoiding common hazards, and carrying a few key supplies, you can help keep your pet safe and comfortable all season long.

Explore Pets Drug Mart's selection of summer safety essentials, parasite prevention products, and wellness supports to help your pet make the most of the warmer months.