Hot Weather Tips for Pets: Keep Your Furry Friends Cool and Safe This Summer ☀️🐾
When temperatures rise, our pets feel the heat just like we do—and sometimes even more intensely. Dogs and cats don’t sweat the way humans do, which means they’re more susceptible to overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke during the hot summer months.
Whether you’re heading out for a sunny adventure or staying cool at home, it’s important to take a few extra precautions to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable.
Here are our top hot weather tips for pets so they can enjoy summer safely right by your side!
1. Hydration Is Everything 💧
The #1 rule during hot weather? Always keep fresh, cool water available.
•Bring a portable water bottle and bowl for walks or outdoor play.
•Add a few ice cubes to your pet’s bowl to keep it refreshing.
•Offer frozen treats or pet-safe popsicles to cool them down and keep them hydrated.
🛍️ At Bark & Luv, we carry hydration packs, portable water bowls, and fun freeze-ready treat molds for pets on the go!
2. Limit Exercise in Peak Heat 🌡️
Avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 11 AM – 4 PM). Instead:
•Opt for early morning or late evening walks.
•Shorten walk times during extreme heat.
•Choose shaded routes and grassy areas to protect paws from hot pavement.
🔥 Test the pavement with your hand—if you can’t hold it there for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
3. Protect Those Paws 🐾
Pavement, asphalt, and even sand can burn your pet’s feet.
•Use paw balms for extra protection and healing.
•Try breathable dog booties if you’ll be walking on hot surfaces.
•Check paws regularly for signs of burns, cracking, or sensitivity.
4. Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car 🚗🚫
Even with the windows cracked, cars heat up dangerously fast.
•On a 75°F day, your car can reach 100°F in just 10 minutes.
•Heatstroke can happen within minutes and may be fatal.
If you’re running errands, it’s safer to leave your pet at home in a cool, safe space.
5. Provide Plenty of Shade and Cool Spaces 🏡🌳
Whether indoors or out, your pet should always have access to a shaded or cool resting spot.
•Indoors: Keep fans or AC running. Use cooling mats or damp towels for lounging.
•Outdoors: Set up shaded zones using umbrellas, tarps, or trees.
🌬️ Cooling beds and pads are a great option for pets who overheat easily—ask us for our favorites at Bark & Luv!
6. Groom for the Season ✂️
Proper grooming can help regulate your pet’s body temperature.
•Brush regularly to remove loose fur and prevent matting (which traps heat).
•Avoid shaving double-coated breeds—they need their coat to protect them from sunburn and overheating.
•Schedule a professional grooming session for a healthy summer coat.
7. Watch for Signs of Overheating 🚨
Heatstroke can be deadly—and it can come on fast. Know the warning signs:
•Excessive panting or drooling
•Bright red gums or tongue
•Lethargy or uncoordinated movement
•Vomiting or diarrhea
•Collapse or unconsciousness
If you suspect heatstroke:
•Move your pet to a cool area immediately.
•Offer small amounts of water.
•Wet their fur with cool (not cold) water.
• Contact your veterinarian right away.
8. Enjoy Summer Safely! 🌞🐶
Hot weather doesn’t mean your pet can’t enjoy the season—just be smart about how and when you play. Try:
•Backyard splash pads or sprinklers
•Frozen treat toys filled with peanut butter or yogurt
•Indoor enrichment activities during peak heat hours
Stay Cool with Bark & Luv ❄️
From hydration gear and paw protection to cooling products and summer treats, Bark & Luv has everything you need to keep your pet safe and happy during the hot months ahead.
Stop by the store and let us help you build the ultimate summer care kit for your furry friend—or ask our team for personalized warm-weather tips based on your pet’s breed, age, or activity level!
Summer is better with pets—just keep it safe.
With a little planning and the right tools, you and your pet can make the most of the sunny season together. ☀️🐾
What’s your pet’s favorite way to stay cool? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your summer photos—we love seeing your pups and kitties living their best life!
#BarkAndLuv #PetSummerSafety #HotWeatherTipsForPets