There’s nothing quite like summer—sunny days, backyard barbecues, and long walks with your furry bestie. But while we humans enjoy the warmth, our pups may struggle in rising temperatures. At Dr. Kathy’s Veterinary Care, Inc in North Redington Beach, FL, we see plenty of seasonal concerns that could have been prevented with a little preparation. With the right summer dog care strategies, you can keep your canine companion happy, hydrated, and safe all season long.
Whether you’re figuring out how to keep dogs cool in summer or trying to avoid heatstroke signs in dogs, we’re here to help you make this summer one your pup will enjoy—without the vet trip.
Unlike people, dogs can’t sweat to cool down. They primarily regulate their temperature by panting, which isn’t always effective on hot, humid days. Combine that with blacktop walks, car rides, and vigorous playtime, and suddenly your pup’s relaxing summer day turns into a heat-related emergency.
Our veterinary clinic in North Redington Beach, FL sees increased cases of heat exhaustion, burned paw pads, and dehydration in dogs every summer. But the good news is—with a few simple precautions, these risks are easy to avoid.
Staying cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential to your dog’s health. When in doubt, think like a pup: shady naps, cool drinks, and skipping the sprints.
Some pups love water play, so a kiddie pool or sprinkler can be a great way to keep your pooch cool while having a blast!
Summer poses a number of hazards—from bugs and barbecues to boating and beyond. Here are some vet-approved summer health tips for dogs to keep your canine pal safe:
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in warm weather. Make sure your dog is on a vet-recommended parasite prevention plan.
Summer cookouts are full of tempting (but dangerous) foods for dogs. Bones, onions, grapes, and corn cobs are all big no-nos.
Backyard parties mean open gates and distractions. Ensure your dog is microchipped and your fencing is escape-proof.
Yes, some dogs can get sunburned—especially those with light-colored fur or bare bellies. Ask your vet about dog-specific sunscreen.
Even active dogs need rest. Let your four-legged buddy relax in cool areas between bursts of play.
Heatstroke can escalate quickly—and it’s one of the most dangerous summer hazards for dogs. Recognizing early signs is key to preventing serious complications.
Act fast if you see these signs:
Heatstroke is a true medical emergency. Our animal hospital in North Redington Beach, FL is fully equipped to handle urgent cases and guide you through summer safety strategies.
Heading out on a road trip with Fido? Make sure he stays cool and secure while you soak in the sights.
Before any trip, schedule a wellness check at Dr. Kathy’s Veterinary Care. You want to make sure your dog is healthy, cleared for adventures, and travel-ready.
Some dogs are more vulnerable to heat than others. Be especially cautious with:
Even Fluffy’s canine cousin (yes, we’re borrowing her name for our hot dog hero) might struggle in the heat. Talk to your veterinarian about tailored care plans if your dog falls into one of these categories.
Dogs should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. In the summer, they may need more. Always have fresh water available.
Not necessarily. A dog’s coat insulates against heat. Shaving can increase sunburn risk. Instead, brush regularly to remove excess undercoat.
Nope! Dogs often push through discomfort. Stick to early morning or evening walks to avoid heatstroke and burned paws.
Try cold banana slices, plain ice cubes, or dog-safe pupsicles made with broth and (Xylitol-free) peanut butter.
For your pup’s sake—yes. Better safe than sorry when it comes to heat and humidity.
From blazing barbecues to sandy adventures, summer is packed with fun—but it’s also full of potential pitfalls for your pup. At Dr. Kathy’s Veterinary Care, Inc, we’re passionate about proactive care and personalized advice. Whether you’re wondering how to keep dogs cool in summer, looking for smart summer health tips for dogs, or worried about heatstroke signs in dogs, our vet clinic in North Redington Beach, FL is here to help.
Call today to schedule a wellness exam and ensure your four-legged buddy is ready to take on summer—safely and happily!
This blog is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice and treatment based on your dog’s individual needs.
