Summer is prime time for backyard play, beach trips, and long walks — but heat is one of the most underestimated risks to pets. Dogs and cats can't cool down the way humans do, and by the time you notice heavy panting or lethargy, they may already be overheating. Here are seven practical ways to keep your pet safe and comfortable when temperatures climb.
1. Know the early signs of overheating
Heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, and reluctance to move are early warning signs. Cats tend to hide their discomfort, so watch for excessive grooming or lying flat in unusual spots.
2. Time outdoor activity around the heat
Walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset, when pavement and air temperature are lower. Hot asphalt can burn paw pads even when the air feels manageable — if you can't hold your hand on the pavement for five seconds, it's too hot for paws.
3. Keep fresh water available at all times
Dehydration speeds up overheating. Cats in particular are notorious for not drinking enough on their own, so a fountain that keeps water moving and filtered encourages them to drink more than a static bowl does — this is one of the easiest habit changes for cat owners.
4. Give them a cool surface to rest on
Pets regulate temperature partly through contact with cooler surfaces. A pressure-activated cooling mat gives dogs and cats a dedicated cool spot without needing refrigeration or electricity — just place it somewhere shaded and let them settle in.
5. Be careful around water
Not every dog is a natural swimmer, and even strong swimmers tire faster in open water. If you're heading to a pool, lake, or beach, a properly fitted life jacket adds a real safety margin, especially for puppies, older dogs, and flat-faced breeds.
6. Never leave pets in a parked car
Even with windows cracked, car interiors can climb more than 20°F above outside temperature within minutes. This one is non-negotiable, no matter how quick the errand.
7. Groom for the season
A well-maintained coat actually helps regulate temperature — matted or excess undercoat traps heat. Regular brushing removes loose fur without shaving down to the skin, which many vets discourage since a dog's coat also protects against sunburn.
Building a simple summer routine
None of this requires an overhaul of how you care for your pet — just a few adjustments and the right gear for the season. Our Summer Essentials collection brings together the products mentioned here in one place, so you can outfit your cat or dog for the season in a single stop.