As summer heats up in San Diego, pet owners face new challenges in keeping their furry companions safe and comfortable, especially dogs.
Dr. Neola Benedek, medical director at PetSmart Veterinary Services inside the PetSmart Sports Arena, shares practical advice to help pets stay healthy during the warmer months.
“Summer is a great time to get outside with your pets,” Dr. Benedek said. “But heat can be dangerous. Pets can overheat just like people, so it’s important to take precautions.”
According to PetSmart data, overheating and dehydration top the list of concerns for dog owners during summer, with 68% worried about heat-related issues and 63% concerned about dehydration.
Dr. Benedek recommends several simple steps to protect pets from heat risks:
First, watch the surfaces your pet walks on. Pavement and sidewalks can get so hot that they burn paws. She suggests sticking to grassy or shaded paths and walking dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. A good test is if you can’t hold your hand on the ground for five seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
Staying hydrated is crucial. Bring water and a portable bowl on walks or trips. Be cautious when using public water bowls, as they may not be regularly cleaned and can spread germs between animals.
Taking regular breaks in the shade helps pets avoid overexertion. If your dog is panting heavily or seems tired, pause and rest before continuing.
Cooling products can also help. Dr. Benedek suggests items like cooling vests, bandanas, or beds. Frozen treats such as dog-friendly ice cream or ice cubes can provide relief on hot days.
Sun protection is often overlooked. Pet-safe sunscreen applied to sensitive areas, such as the nose, ears, and belly, helps prevent burns. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can affect pets, so reapplying sunscreen every couple of hours is important.
Finally, know the signs of heat distress. Heavy panting, difficulty breathing, weakness, confusion, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, seizures, or collapse all indicate serious heat-related illness. If a pet shows these symptoms, move them to a cool area immediately, spray them lightly with cool water, and wrap cool towels around key areas. Emergency veterinary care is essential, as heatstroke effects can worsen over time.
Keeping an eye on pets during hot weather can make a big difference. Taking these precautions helps ensure pets stay safe and comfortable all summer long.
