How to Protect Dogs and Cats During Summer Heatwaves: 5 Rules That Could Save Their Lives
Summer is a time many of us associate with holidays, sunshine, and outdoor activities. For dogs and cats, however, high temperatures can pose a serious threat to their health—and even their lives. Together with the Mam Pomysł Foundation, we share practical advice on how to keep companion animals safe during hot weather and protect them from the dangerous effects of extreme heat.
Experts from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and the American Veterinary Medical Association emphasize that overheating can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.
1. Provide Constant Access to Fresh Water and Shade
The most important way to prevent overheating is to ensure animals always have access to fresh drinking water and a shaded place to rest. Unlike humans, dogs and cats do not sweat efficiently, which limits their ability to cool themselves.
If your pet spends time outdoors, regularly check that the water bowl is full and that the resting area remains shaded throughout the day.
2. Avoid Walks During the Hottest Hours
On hot days, plan walks early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are significantly lower. During the middle of the day, asphalt and pavement can become hot enough to burn your dog’s paw pads. It’s also best to avoid vigorous exercise—long walks, running, or energetic play should be postponed until cooler weather.
A simple rule of thumb: if you cannot comfortably keep the back of your hand on the pavement for about 10 seconds, it is too hot for your dog.
If your dog wears a muzzle, make sure it allows them to open their mouth fully and pant. Panting is the primary way dogs regulate their body temperature. Fabric muzzles that restrict panting should never be used in hot weather. Instead, choose a basket muzzle that allows your dog to pant freely and drink water.
3. Never Leave an Animal in a Car
Even a few minutes inside a parked vehicle can be fatal. The temperature inside a car rises rapidly, even if the windows are partially open.
If you notice an animal left inside a hot vehicle, do not ignore the situation. Try to locate the owner or contact the appropriate emergency services.
4. Learn to Recognize the Signs of Overheating
Common symptoms include:
- excessive panting,
- excessive drooling,
- weakness,
- lethargy,
- loss of coordination,
- vomiting.
If you notice any of these signs, move the animal to a cool place and gradually cool them with cool—not ice-cold—water. Then seek veterinary assistance as quickly as possible.
5. Create Safe Resting Spaces
During hot weather, thoughtfully designed environments make a huge difference. Animals need places where they can escape the sun, relax, and feel secure.
That is why, together with the Mushika Foundation, we are developing a sensory garden at the Animal Shelter in Świdnica. Filled with plants, natural scents, varied textures, and shaded areas, this space helps dogs recover from the stress of shelter life, relax, and spend time safely even on the hottest days.
Solutions like these not only improve animal welfare but also help caregivers better understand each dog’s needs and behaviour, increasing their chances of finding a responsible, loving home.
Let’s remember the animals during heatwaves. A few simple precautions can prevent unnecessary suffering—and may even save a life.
Sources
- Heatstroke: A Medical Emergency, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Summer Heat Safety Tips for Dogs, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Warm Weather Pet Safety, American Veterinary Medical Association
- Pet Safety in Vehicles, American Veterinary Medical Association
