Protecting Your Pets This Summer

When temperatures rise, pets can quickly become uncomfortable and in some cases dangerously unwell. Dogs, cats and small animals are far more vulnerable to heat than many owners realise, especially during periods of hot weather and high humidity. From dehydration to burned paw pads and heatstroke, summer brings seasonal risks every pet owner should know about.

To help keep your beloved companions safe, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about summer pet safety tips, hydration and outdoor care.

How much water do pets need during summer?

Pets need constant access to fresh, clean water all year round, but their water intake naturally increases during warmer weather.

As general rule is:

-            A dog weighing 5kg+ needs about 250–300 ml per day

-            A dog weighing 10kg+ needs about 500–600 ml per day

-            A dog weighing 20kg+ needs about 1–1.2 litres per day

Active dogs, puppies, nursing mothers and pets spending time outdoors may need more water than the vet recommendations above.

Cats often drink less naturally, which can make dehydration harder to spot. Encouraging regular drinking is especially important during hot spells.

Keeping your pet hydrated should be at the top of the list when it comes to summer pet safety tips. Simple ways to encourage hydration include:

-            Keeping multiple water bowls around the home and garden

-            Refreshing water frequently throughout the day

-            Using ceramic or stainless-steel bowls to keep water cooler

-            Providing shaded resting spots outdoors

-            Taking travel water bottles or collapsible bowls on walks

-            Offering wet food alongside dry food where appropriate

What are the signs of dehydration in pets?

Dehydration can develop surprisingly quickly in summer, especially after exercise or time spent in direct sunlight.

Common signs include:

-            Dry or sticky gums

-            Excessive panting

-            Sunken eyes

-            Lethargy or weakness

-            Reduced skin elasticity

-            Dark urine or reduced urination

-            Loss of appetite

In dogs, gently lifting the skin between the shoulders can sometimes help identify dehydration. In a well-hydrated pet, the skin should quickly spring back into place. If it stays tented, dehydration may be developing.

If your pet seems unusually tired, refuses water, vomits, or shows worsening symptoms, contact your vet immediately.

What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?

Recognising the signs of heatstroke in dogs early can save lives. Heatstroke occurs when a dog can no longer regulate their body temperature effectively through panting.

Early warning signs include:

-            Heavy panting

-            Excessive drooling

-            Lethargy or weakness

-            Bright red gums or tongue

-            Vomiting or diarrhoea

-            Restlessness

-            Rapid breathing

As heatstroke progresses, symptoms may become severe and life-threatening, resulting in collapse, confusion or disorientation, seizures, difficulty breathing or even loss of consciousness.

Dogs suffer heat-related illness during exercise in hot weather and from being left in cars alone.

Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs are especially vulnerable, along with elderly pets, overweight animals and those with thick coats or underlying health conditions. If any of these descriptions match your dog, it’s really important to recognise the signs of heatstroke in dogs and to know how to prevent heatstroke in dogs.

What should I do if my pet develops heatstroke?

Heatstroke is always an emergency. If you suspect your dog is overheating:

-            Move them immediately into shade or a cool indoor area

-            Stop exercise straight away

-            Offer small amounts of cool water

-            Pour cool (not ice-cold) water over their body, especially the stomach, neck and inner thighs

-            Increase airflow with a fan if possible

-            Contact your vet as a matter of urgency  

Current RSPCA guidance advises ‘cool first, transport second’, meaning immediate cooling is essential before travelling to the veterinary practice. Never cover an overheating dog with wet towels, as this can trap heat against the body.

How can I keep pets cool in summer?

Knowing how to keep pets cool in summer is one of the best ways to prevent heat-related illness.

Some effective ways include:

-            Walking dogs early in the morning or later in the evening

-            Avoiding strenuous exercise during hot weather

-            Keeping curtains closed indoors during peak heat

-            Providing cooling mats or damp towels to lie on

-            Using paddling pools or sprinklers for dogs who enjoy water

-            Grooming regularly to remove excess fur

-            Ensuring constant access to shade outdoors

For owners walking dogs in hot weather UK conditions, pavement temperature is another major concern. Tarmac and paving slabs can become hot enough to burn paw pads even when the air temperature feels manageable.

A good rule is the five-second test. If you cannot comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.

Is it dangerous to leave pets in cars during summer?

Yes — even for a few minutes. Cars heat up extremely quickly, even with windows open or parked in shade. According to the RSPCA, when temperatures reach 22°C outside, the inside of a vehicle can rise to 47°C within an hour. Leaving pets in hot cars can rapidly lead to fatal heatstroke. If you see a dog in distress inside a hot vehicle, contact emergency services immediately.

Can pets get sunburn?

Absolutely. Knowing how to keep pets cool in summer is very important and so is protecting their skin. Light-coloured pets, white cats and dogs with thin coats are particularly vulnerable to sunburn, especially on the nose, ears and areas with sparse fur. Pet-safe sunscreen can help protect exposed skin. Providing shaded areas outdoors is equally important.

Are there other summer hazards pet owners should watch for?

Summer gardens and barbecues can present hidden dangers for pets.

Common seasonal hazards include:

-            Barbecue skewers and cooked bones

-            Corn cobs and fatty foods

-            Citronella candles and lighter fluids

-            Garden fertilisers and weed killers

-            Slug pellets and pesticides

-            Bee and wasp stings

-            Ticks and fleas

Always supervise pets around outdoor gatherings and store chemicals securely out of reach.

Summer should be enjoyable for both pets and owners, but warmer weather requires a little extra planning. By recognising the signs of heatstroke in dogs, keeping pets hydrated, and following sensible outdoor precautions, you can dramatically reduce the risk of heat-related emergencies.

If you are concerned about your pet during hot weather, contact your veterinary practice promptly for advice. Prevention, early recognition and quick action can make all the difference.