Tips For Handling Summertime Heat

Learn how to keep your dog safe during the hottest months of the year.

2 mins.
Posted by Stand For Animals Staff
Veterinary Care

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when a dog's internal temperature rises to an unsafe degree. Normally, a dog’s temperature is between 100-102.5°F. Heat stroke can occur when a dog’s body temperature rises above 104°F. Heat stroke can be fatal and lead to organ failure, brain damage, seizures, and more.

Being proactive about heat stroke is the best way to keep your dog safe. By understanding how to keep your dog cool you can make sure to enjoy the summer!

What are the symptoms of heat stroke?

Excessive Panting: Rapid, heavy panting that doesn't stop, even when the dog is at rest.
Drooling: Excessive drooling or salivation, often thicker and more profuse than usual.
Disorientation: Staggering, confusion, or a lack of coordination.
Vomiting or Diarrhea: Sometimes accompanied by blood, indicating severe stress.
Collapse: Weakness, collapse, or loss of consciousness, indicating a critical condition.

When is it time to see a doctor?

These symptoms require immediate attention to prevent serious complications. If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, take them to an emergency vet right away. Emergency vet practices we recommend:

Charlotte: Charlotte Animal Referral & Emergency (CARE), 704-457-2300
Lake Norman: Denver Animal Emergency, 980-222-7115

Reminder: Stand For Animals is not an emergency vet practice and as such cannot treat patients experiencing a medical emergency.

Tips for walking your dog during the summer! (It is too hot to run with your dog!)

Best time for walks

Early Morning: Before 8 AM, when the pavement has had a chance to cool overnight.
Late Evening: After 7 PM, when the sun is lower and the pavement has started to cool down.
Shady Areas: Choose routes with ample shade, which can be cooler than exposed areas.

Check the pavement’s temperature

The air temperature has a huge impact on the temperature of asphalt. If it is above 75°F, check the pavement before walking your dog.

How to check asphalt temperature: Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.

Other tips for walking

Booties: Consider using dog booties to protect paws from hot surfaces.
Grass and Dirt Paths: Walk on grass or dirt paths which are generally cooler than pavement.
Hydration: Always bring water to keep your dog hydrated during walks.