Summer Pet Safety: Keeping Your Pets Safe All Season Long

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your pets, but warmer temperatures also bring unique risks that every pet owner should be aware of. From heatstroke and dehydration to hot pavement and backyard barbecues, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your furry family members safe.

Here are some simple tips to help your pets stay happy and healthy all summer long.

Never Leave Pets in a Parked Vehicle

Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Cracking the windows does little to keep the vehicle cool.

Heatstroke can develop quickly and become life-threatening. If you're running errands and your pet can't come inside with you, it's safest to leave them at home.

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke

Dogs and cats cannot cool themselves as efficiently as people, making them especially vulnerable during hot weather.

Signs of heatstroke may include:

  • Excessive panting

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Drooling

  • Bright red or pale gums

  • Weakness or collapse

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Confusion or disorientation

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect your pet is overheating, move them to a cool area, offer small amounts of water, and seek veterinary care immediately.

Avoid Hot Pavement

Asphalt and concrete can become much hotter than the surrounding air and may burn your pet's paw pads.

A simple rule to remember is the seven-second test: place the back of your hand on the pavement. If it's too hot for you to comfortably hold there for seven seconds, it's too hot for your pet.

Whenever possible:

  • Walk during the early morning or evening.

  • Choose grassy or shaded paths.

  • Limit exercise during the hottest part of the day.

Keep Fresh Water Available

Hydration is essential during the summer months.

Whether you're at home, on a walk, or traveling, make sure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water. Consider bringing a portable water bowl whenever you're on the go.

Keep Up with Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention

Summer is peak season for parasites.

Fleas and ticks can spread disease and cause skin irritation, while mosquitoes can transmit heartworms—a potentially life-threatening disease that is much easier to prevent than treat.

Talk with your veterinarian about the best preventative products for your pet and remember that protection should continue year-round.

Practice Water Safety

Many dogs enjoy swimming, but not every dog is a natural swimmer.

If you're spending time around lakes, rivers, pools, or on a boat:

  • Never force your pet into the water.

  • Consider a properly fitted life jacket.

  • Supervise pets closely at all times.

  • Rinse your pet after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, or lake debris.

  • Discourage drinking from lakes or pools whenever possible.

Be Careful at Cookouts

Summer gatherings often include foods that can be dangerous for pets.

Keep pets away from:

  • Corn cobs

  • Cooked bones

  • Grapes and raisins

  • Onions and garlic

  • Chocolate

  • Xylitol-containing foods and gum

  • Alcohol

Also be mindful of skewers, food wrappers, and trash bags, which curious pets may try to investigate.

Fireworks Can Be Frightening

While fireworks are exciting for people, they can be terrifying for pets.

To help reduce stress:

  • Keep pets indoors during fireworks.

  • Close windows and curtains.

  • Turn on a television or fan to help mask loud noises.

  • Make sure collars and identification tags are up to date.

  • Verify that your pet's microchip information is current in case they become lost.

Keep an Eye on Summer Plants and Chemicals

Gardens and lawns often contain products that can be harmful to pets.

Store fertilizers, pesticides, pool chemicals, and citronella products securely, and supervise pets around unfamiliar plants or mushrooms.

If you think your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Make Summer Safe and Fun

Summer should be full of adventures, not emergencies. By taking a few extra precautions and staying up to date on preventative care, you can help your pet safely enjoy everything the season has to offer.

At the Fix'Em Clinic, we're committed to helping pets stay healthy year-round through affordable preventative care. Whether your pet is due for vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, heartworm testing, or parasite prevention, our team is here to help.

Have a safe, happy, and healthy summer!

BG Hamrick