Keeping Cats and Dogs Safe, Happy, and Healthy During the Summer

 

Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and more time outdoors—but for pet owners, it also means added responsibility. Cats and dogs are sensitive to heat, dehydration, and seasonal hazards. Unlike humans, they can't cool off by sweating or speak up when they're too hot or uncomfortable. As temperatures rise, so does the importance of adjusting daily pet care routines to meet their seasonal needs. Here are research-based, practical, and effective summer pet care tips that go beyond the basics.

 

1. Heat Safety Is Not Optional—It’s Essential

Pets are much more vulnerable to heatstroke than many realize. Dogs regulate heat mainly by panting, while cats use grooming and limited sweat glands on their paws. On hot days, limit outdoor activities to early morning or evening hours. Pavement can burn paw pads—temperatures of 125°F (51°C) have been recorded on sidewalks when the air is just 77°F (25°C). A simple test: if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Walk on grass or shaded trails instead.

Hydration must be proactive. Provide multiple water stations indoors and outdoors. Add ice cubes to water bowls or freeze low-sodium broth into pet-safe popsicles. For cats, who are naturally low drinkers, consider water fountains that encourage more frequent sipping. Dehydration can escalate quickly into medical emergencies, so frequent observation is key.

 

2. Grooming Adjustments for the Season

Summer grooming isn't about shaving your pet; it’s about managing their coat smartly. Contrary to myth, shaving double-coated breeds (like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, or even some long-haired cats) can damage their natural insulation and increase the risk of sunburn. Instead, brush more frequently to remove undercoat and reduce shedding, which improves airflow to the skin. A clean, mat-free coat also reduces the chance of hot spots and skin infections.

 

If you bathe your dog more often during summer, use a gentle, pet-safe shampoo—never human shampoo, which can disturb their skin’s pH balance. For cats, avoid unnecessary bathing unless medically needed, and keep grooming sessions short but regular to manage heat retention from excess fur.

 

3. Bugs, Toxins, and Outdoor Hazards

 Warm weather brings more than just sunshine—it increases exposure to fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These pests can transmit diseases such as Lyme, ehrlichiosis, or heartworm (especially in dogs). Use vet-approved preventatives consistently. Natural remedies like diatomaceous earth or essential oil sprays are popular but should be used cautiously, as many essential oils are toxic to cats and certain dog breeds.

Be cautious about lawn chemicals and garden products. Many weed killers, fertilizers, and pesticides can be harmful if pets walk on treated areas and later lick their paws. When hiking or visiting parks, watch out for foxtails and burrs, which can lodge in paws, ears, and noses—especially in dogs. For cats who go outdoors, check for these debris after every outing.

 

4. Rethinking Exercise and Play During Summer

Your pet’s energy levels may naturally dip during summer—don’t force high-intensity activities in the heat. Instead, opt for mentally stimulating games indoors. Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or hide-and-seek games keep pets mentally sharp without heat risk. For dogs, short training refreshers using positive reinforcement are not only mentally enriching but also strengthen the human-animal bond.

When outdoor play is safe, offer shaded spaces, cooling mats, or even shallow kiddie pools. Many dogs enjoy splashing under supervision, and even some cats may tolerate water play if introduced gently. Avoid public dog beaches or parks during peak heat, as they often have hot surfaces, crowds, and unmonitored interactions that can stress or endanger your pet.