Dog Hot Weather Safety | How to Keep Dogs & Pets Cool This Summer

Keeping Dogs Safe During Hot Weather – Summer Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know

When the sun comes out, many of us can't wait to get outdoors. Whether it's a countryside walk, relaxing in the garden or spending time with family, summer can be one of the best times of year.

Unfortunately, our pets don't always enjoy the heat as much as we do.

Unlike people, dogs cannot cool themselves efficiently. They rely mainly on panting, making them much more vulnerable to overheating and heatstroke. Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and even local wildlife can also struggle when temperatures soar.

With another spell of hot weather upon us, we thought we'd share some simple ways to help keep every member of the family safe this summer.

Why Hot Weather Can Be Dangerous for Dogs

Dogs have very few sweat glands and cannot regulate their body temperature like humans. This means their temperature can rise quickly, particularly during walks, car journeys or play sessions.

Some dogs are even more at risk, including:

• Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs

• Older dogs

• Puppies

• Overweight dogs

• Dogs with heart or breathing problems

• Thick-coated breeds

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and can develop much faster than many owners realise.

Walk Smarter, Not Longer

The coolest parts of the day are usually early morning or later in the evening.

If you need to walk your dog during warmer weather, keep walks shorter and stick to shaded areas where possible.

The Five Second Rule

Place the back of your hand on the pavement.

If you can't comfortably leave it there for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Fresh Water Is Essential

Always make sure your dog has access to fresh, cool drinking water.

If you're heading out, even for a short walk, take water with you.

Extra water bowls around the house and garden are always appreciated too.

Frozen Treats They'll Love

Cooling treats are a brilliant way to keep dogs entertained while helping regulate their body temperature.

Some favourites include:

• Frozen watermelon

• Apple slices

• Blueberries

• Greek yoghurt cubes

• Frozen enrichment toys

• Dog-friendly ice cream

Here at The Doggy Paddle Club, we make our own delicious dog-friendly ice cream and frozen treats, making hot days just that little bit more enjoyable for your four-legged friends.

Shade Is Your Best Friend

Whether your dog is relaxing in the garden or joining you for a picnic, always make sure they have somewhere shaded to escape the direct sunshine.

Parasols, gazebos and natural tree cover all help keep temperatures lower.

Never Leave Dogs in Cars

Even with windows open, the inside of a vehicle can become dangerously hot within minutes.

If your dog can't come with you, it's always safest to leave them comfortably at home.

Signs of Heatstroke

Knowing the warning signs could save your dog's life.

Watch for:

• Excessive panting

• Heavy drooling

• Bright red gums

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Weakness

• Confusion

• Collapse

If you suspect heatstroke:

✔ Move your dog into a cool shaded area.

✔ Offer small amounts of cool (not icy) water.

✔ Pour cool water over their paws, tummy and neck.

✔ Contact your vet immediately.

Looking After Other Pets

Cats

Cats usually find cool places themselves, but they still need plenty of fresh water, access to shade and cool places to rest.

Rabbits & Guinea Pigs

Move hutches out of direct sunlight.

Wrap frozen bottles of water in towels for them to lie beside and keep water topped up throughout the day.

Birds & Wildlife

A shallow bowl of clean water can make a huge difference to birds, hedgehogs, bees and butterflies.

Add a few stones so insects can safely land while drinking.

Every little act of kindness helps.

Don't Forget Yourself!

As pet owners, we're brilliant at making sure everyone else is looked after first.

So here's your friendly reminder...

Drink plenty of water.

Wear sunscreen.

Take regular breaks.

Try not to tackle every gardening job in one afternoon.

And if someone offers you an ice cream...

We fully support accepting it in the interests of staying cool!

Helping Dogs Enjoy Summer Safely

Summer should be filled with happy memories, wagging tails and adventures—not emergency trips to the vet.

By walking at cooler times, providing fresh water, offering frozen treats and recognising the signs of heatstroke early, we can all help keep our pets safe during periods of hot weather.

At The Doggy Paddle Club in Barton upon Humber, we're passionate about helping dogs enjoy every season. Whether that's through our dog-friendly ice cream, frozen treats or private swimming sessions, we're always looking for ways to help your furry friends stay cool, happy and healthy.

Most importantly, remember to look after yourselves too.

Check in on neighbours, friends and family, especially those with pets who may appreciate a helping hand.

Kindness costs nothing, and together we can make sure everyone—both two-legged and four-legged—has a safe and enjoyable summer.