Summer Pet Safety Tips: How to Keep Your Pets Cool and Healthy in the Heat

Burwell Pharmacy
1 day ago
4 min read

Summer is a season of sunshine, long walks, backyard barbecues, and plenty of outdoor fun. But as summer heats up, we need to take extra care to keep our families safe and healthy, including our pets. As your trusted pharmacy, we aren’t just here to fill your prescriptions—we’re dedicated to serving the whole family, including your furry companions. Whether you’re planning your next outdoor adventure or relaxing in your backyard, these tips will help keep your pets cool, comfortable, and protected all summer long.

Summer Pet Safety Tips: How to Keep Your Pets Cool and Healthy in the Heat

Summer Health Risks for Pets

Heatstroke and Dehydration

Pets can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans. Dogs pant to cool down, and cats groom themselves, but both can quickly overheat on hot days. Watch for signs of heatstroke, including heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. ¹

Signs of heatstroke include:

Excessive panting or drooling
Bright red or pale gums
Lethargy or collapse
Vomiting or diarrhea
Confusion or disorientation

If you notice any of these signs, immediately move your pet to a cool area. Offer water (but don’t force them to drink), apply cool, wet towels, and contact your vet.

Prevent heatstroke by keeping your pets cool and comfortable in the summer:

Ensure pets have access to a cool, shaded area.¹
Avoid going on walks during the hottest part of the day. Instead, go on walks in the morning or later in the evening.¹
Ensure pets have cool drinking water available.¹
If your pet has a thicker coat, ensure they are regularly groomed as advised for their breed.¹
Stock up on electrolyte powders, pet-safe cooling mats, and hydration boosters to help keep your pet cool during the hottest days.

Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in warm weather and carry dangerous diseases. Mosquitoes can transmit heartworms, while ticks may spread Lyme disease or Ehrlichiosis.² Keep your pet protected whether you're hiking, walking in the park, or relaxing on the porch.

Use vet-recommended flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives year-round.
Inspect your pet after outdoor time, especially in wooded or grassy areas.
Vacuum and wash bedding regularly.
Treat your yard for pests (using pet-safe products).

Hot Surfaces

It’s easy to forget how hot sidewalks and driveways can get during summer. A surface that feels warm to us may be scorching for your pet’s paws. Not sure if the ground is too hot for your pet? Place your hand on the ground for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.³

Hydration and Nutrition

Hydration is critical during summer. Dogs and cats can dehydrate quickly when it’s hot, especially during play or outdoor time.

Signs of dehydration include:⁴

Dry nose or gums
Sunken eyes
Lethargy
Loss of skin elasticity

Tips to keep pets hydrated:

Provide multiple water bowls in shady or cool areas.
Add ice cubes to water bowls.
Use portable bowls or pet hydration packs when out and about.
Feed moisture-rich foods like wet pet food or hydrating treats (in moderation).

Adjusting feeding schedules may also help—many pets eat less in hot weather. Try feeding in the cooler morning or evening hours to maintain appetite and comfort.

Fireworks and Summer Events

Fireworks may be fun, but loud noises from fireworks or parties can be scary for pets. Loud booms and flashing lights often cause panic, anxiety, and even injuries if pets try to escape.

Keep your pets safe by:

Keeping them indoors in a quiet, secure room.⁵
Creating a safe, quiet space with familiar toys and bedding.⁵
Using calming aids (natural chews, pheromone diffusers, or anxiety wraps).⁵
Playing soft music or white noise to mask outdoor sounds.⁵
Ensuring their microchip and ID tags are up to date in case they bolt.⁵

Travel and Vacation Safety

Planning a road trip or beach getaway? Make sure your pets are safe and comfortable on the go.

Use a secured crate or seatbelt harness.
Pack food, water, medications, and toys.
Make frequent stops for bathroom and water breaks.
Never let pets roam freely in the car.
Never leave pets unattended in a car. On an 85°F day, a car can reach over 100°F in just 10 minutes. This can be fatal, even with windows cracked.⁶

If boarding, choose a reputable facility and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Or consider a pet sitter if your pet is more comfortable at home.

Water Safety

Many pets enjoy water, but not all are natural swimmers. Pools, lakes, and beaches all carry risks—strong currents, pool chemicals, and drowning. If you plan on spending time near a pool, lake, or beach with your pet, practice water safety:

Supervise pets near any body of water. ⁷
Use pet life jackets for boating or swimming.⁷
Rinse off salt or chlorine after a swim.⁷

We believe pets are family, and their health matters as much as yours. Keeping your pet safe in the summer doesn't have to be complicated. A little planning, the right supplies, and advice from your trusted pharmacy can go a long way.