The short version: never leave a pet in a parked car, keep shade and fresh water within reach, walk in the cooler parts of the day, and treat panting that won’t settle, drooling, weakness or collapse as an emergency. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) notes that warm weather can be risky even on days that don’t feel very hot to people. The rest of this guide covers the details for dogs and cats: heat, hot pavement, water, grooming, and yard hazards.
Keep your pet cool in hot weather
Never leave a pet in a parked vehicle
Cracking the windows does not make a parked car safe, and a short errand is still too long. The ASPCA warns that hot cars can cause fatal heatstroke. In an ASPCA release titled “ASPCA Cautions Pet Owners About Summer Safety” (2013), Dr. Louise Murray, vice president of the ASPCA Animal Hospital, said: “Pet owners should never leave their animals unattended in a parked vehicle.” If the pet can’t come inside with you, leave it at home.
Shade, water and a cool place indoors
- When pets are outside, give them shade and a constant supply of fresh, clean water.
- On very hot days, bring them into a cool indoor space and limit strenuous activity.
- Move walks, hikes and runs to cooler hours, take frequent breaks, and carry enough water for the pet and for you. A portable pet water bottle or collapsible bowl is a convenient way to do this; choose one by capacity, leak resistance, portability and how easy it is to clean.
Know which pets are at higher risk
The AVMA names overweight pets and short-nosed (brachycephalic) dog breeds as needing extra caution when exercising in warm weather, and suggests talking to your veterinarian before starting an exercise program. The National Weather Service (NWS) and ASPCA also point to age, health and any past heat illness. If your pet fits any of these, be more conservative than the general advice above.
Check the ground before you walk
Asphalt and cement can burn paw pads. The NWS suggests pressing the back of your hand on the surface: if it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your pet. Shorten the walk, switch to grass or shaded routes, or go at a cooler time. Don’t push a pet to overexercise on a hot day.
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Recognizing heatstroke and what to do
Warning signs listed by the ASPCA and NWS include:
- Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
- Drooling
- Increased or rapid or irregular heart rate and respiratory rate
- Weakness, lethargy or stupor
- Refusal to eat
- Collapse
If you suspect heat illness:
- Move the animal to a cooler place, indoors or into shade.
- Apply cool, wet towels, and re-wet them as they warm up.
- Offer cool, fresh water.
- Contact a veterinarian promptly.
These are general first steps from the NWS and ASPCA, not a replacement for a veterinary exam. A pet that looks better after cooling may still need to be seen.
Pools, beaches and boats
Pools
Don’t leave a pet unsupervised near a pool, and don’t assume every dog can swim. Introduce water gradually. Afterward, rinse the dog to remove chlorine or salt, and discourage it from drinking pool water.
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Beaches
Bring clean fresh water rather than letting the pet drink from the ocean. The ASPCA notes that swallowing salt water can cause vomiting, diarrhea and increased thirst, and that severe cases can upset electrolyte balance and affect the heart or nervous system.
Boats
The ASPCA advises flotation devices for pets on boats, and having the pet practice wearing the vest on land before it goes near water. A vest is an extra safety aid, not a guarantee, and doesn’t replace supervision. The sources don’t rank products, so use buyer-check criteria instead:
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- Fit for your pet’s species, size and body shape
- Adjustability, so it stays snug without restricting breathing or movement
- Suitability for the water conditions and activity you plan
- The manufacturer’s own safety and sizing instructions
Coat, sun and bugs
- Don’t shave a dog down to the skin. The ASPCA explains that coat layers help protect against both overheating and sunburn. Seasonal trims can be appropriate, but the AVMA advises asking your veterinarian whether your particular pet would benefit from a warm-weather haircut.
- Brush cats more often if needed to manage excess coat.
- Sunscreen and repellent: use only products labeled for animals, never human versions. Not every pet needs sunscreen; the ASPCA notes it may matter especially for short-coated pets with light-colored exposed skin. Check the product and your pet with your veterinarian.
Yard, home and gatherings
- Lawn chemicals: keep pets away from fertilizer and insecticides, follow label directions, and don’t let them onto treated areas until the label’s conditions are met.
- Windows: secure adjustable screens. Open, unscreened windows can be dangerous, especially for cats.
- Cookouts and parties: keep pets on their normal diet and treats, and keep potentially toxic human food and drinks out of reach.
What these sources don’t cover
This advice comes from the AVMA, ASPCA and National Weather Service and applies to dogs and cats; other species can have different needs. It doesn’t address local laws on pets in cars, specific treatment protocols, or any one animal’s medical situation. For questions about your pet’s heat risk, coat, products or symptoms, ask your veterinarian.
Quick Recap
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- Helps Pets Stay Cool All Summer Long | This pet cooling mat gives your pet a refreshing spot to relax during sunny days, after walks and whenever pets naturally seek cooler surfaces
- Breathable, Stays Fresh | Ice silk fabric, absorbent cotton and mesh layers help release heat and create a fresher place for your pet to lie down
- No Freezing or Water Needed | No-gel self cooling mat for dogs provides continuous cooling with no water, refrigeration or electricity—simply place it wherever your pet likes to rest
- Choose the Right Size | M: 28" × 22" in up to 33 lbs (Pugs, French Bulldogs) | L: 39" × 27" in up to 66 lbs (Corgis, Border Collies) | XL: 47" × 31" in up to 88 (Huskies) lbs and XXL: 59" × 39" in up to 110 lbs (Mastiffs, Great Danes)
- Creates a Cooler Place Indoors | This cooling dog mat fits perfectly in crates, kennels, dog beds, sofas and on floors, giving pets a place to relax
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