08/03/2026
🌡️ Keeping Pets Safe During Late Summer Heat Waves 🌡️
As we continue to experience high summer temperatures, it is imperative that we know how to keep our pets safe! Here are a few simple ways to help your furry family members stay cool and healthy:
💧 Always provide cool, fresh water.
Whether you're at home or on the go, make sure your pet has access to plenty of clean water. Dehydration can happen quickly in hot weather.
🐾 Walk during the coolest parts of the day.
Aim for early morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower. Long midday walks can expose your pup to dangerous heat and hot pavement. Our midday dog walkers prioritize potty breaks with short walks versus longer walks when the temperatures are too high.
🐶 Protect those paws!
Sidewalks and asphalt can become hot enough to burn paw pads. A good rule of thumb: if you can't comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
🌳 Provide shade and air conditioning.
If your pet spends any time outdoors, make sure they always have access to shade and fresh water. Whenever possible, bring them inside during extreme heat. This is especially important for those who have indoor/outdoor cats!
🚗 Never leave pets in a parked vehicle.
Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can climb to dangerous levels within minutes.
🔥 Know the signs of heat exhaustion.
Watch for:
- excessive panting
- drooling
- bright red or pale gums
- weakness or stumbling
- vomiting or diarrhea
- confusion or collapse
If you notice these signs, move your pet to a cool area immediately, offer small amounts of cool water (not ice-cold), and contact your veterinarian right away for further guidance. Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
⭐️ Remember that some pets are at higher risk.
Puppies/kittens, senior pets, overweight pets, flat faced breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats), and pets with heart or respiratory conditions can overheat much more quickly than others.
A little extra caution during these final weeks of summer can help ensure your pets stay happy, healthy, and ready to enjoy the cooler days ahead.
- Your fur-iends at Olivia's Pack
☎️ 302-439-0756
✉️ [email protected]