Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friends as the days get longer and temperatures rise. But the season also brings several summer dangers for pets, from heatstroke to toxic BBQ foods. Awareness of these hazards can help you keep your dog or cat safe, healthy, and happy all summer.

Quick Pet Safety Tips for Summer

• Provide shade and plenty of fresh water.
• Walk dogs early in the morning or late evening.
• Never leave pets in a hot car.
• Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed skin.
• Avoid giving pets BBQ scraps.
• Supervise pets near pools, lakes, and the sea.
• Stay up to date on flea and tick treatments.

Heatstroke and Dehydration in Dogs and Cats

One of the biggest risks to pets in hot weather is heatstroke, a life-threatening condition. Dogs and cats struggle to regulate their body temperature, especially in extreme heat. Short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs are particularly vulnerable.

Signs of Heatstroke in Pets:

• Heavy panting or drooling
• Lethargy or confusion
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Collapse or seizures

Prevention Tips:

• Always provide cool, clean drinking water.
• Ensure pets have access to shady areas.
• Avoid walking pets during peak heat (11 am–3 pm).
• Never leave pets in a parked car, even for a few minutes!

Hot Pavements and Pet Sunburn

Surfaces like pavement and sand can become dangerously hot in the summer sun. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws! Additionally, pets with light-coloured or thin fur can suffer from sunburn, especially on their ears, noses, and bellies.

Prevention Tips:

• Walk pets early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Test pavement temperature before heading out.
• Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed skin.
• Consider protective booties for dogs walking on hot ground.

BBQ and Picnic Dangers for Pets

Summer gatherings often mean BBQs, picnics, and parties, but many human foods are toxic or hazardous to pets.

Foods That Are Dangerous for Pets:

• Corn on the cob
• Cooked bones
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions, garlic, and chocolate
• Alcohol and fatty meats

Prevention Tips:

• Keep food and drink out of pets’ reach.
• Ask guests not to feed pets scraps.
• Stick to pet-safe treats or designated snacks.

Water Safety for Pets

Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even strong swimmers can struggle in deep water, rough waves, or get disoriented.

Prevention Tips:

• Supervise pets around water at all times.
• Use a pet life jacket for boating or swimming.
• Rinse pets after swimming to remove chlorine or salt.
• Don’t allow pets to drink pool or saltwater.

Fleas, Ticks, and Summer Parasites

Warmer weather brings an increase in parasites like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, which can carry diseases such as Lyme disease and heartworm.

Prevention Tips:

• Stay up to date with flea, tick, and worming treatments.
• Check your pet’s fur and skin after outdoor walks.
• Avoid areas with tall grass and dense vegetation.

Final Thoughts: Keep Pets Cool and Comfortable

By being aware of these summer hazards for pets and taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable season for your furry companions. Whether you're heading to the beach, firing up the BBQ, or enjoying the garden, remember to put pet safety first.

☀️ Stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy the sunshine—together!