{"id":826,"date":"2025-05-21T12:14:26","date_gmt":"2025-05-21T11:14:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vetbox.com\/blog\/?p=826"},"modified":"2025-05-21T12:14:26","modified_gmt":"2025-05-21T11:14:26","slug":"too-hot-to-handle-keeping-your-pets-safe-in-the-summer-heat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vetbox.com\/blog\/2025\/05\/21\/too-hot-to-handle-keeping-your-pets-safe-in-the-summer-heat\/","title":{"rendered":"Too Hot to Handle? Keeping Your Pets Safe in the Summer Heat"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Warm weather might seem like the perfect excuse for long walks and garden play, but when the temperature rises it can be risky for our pets, especially dogs and cats who can\u2019t cool down like we do. Here\u2019s how to help them stay safe, happy and healthy in the heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why heat is harder on pets<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Unlike humans, dogs and cats don\u2019t sweat to regulate their body temperature. Dogs mainly rely on panting while cats prefer to stay still in cool spots. That means hot weather can quickly become dangerous, especially for flat-faced pets like pugs, bulldogs and Persians, as well as older animals, young kittens or puppies, overweight pets and thick-coated breeds. Even mild temperatures can cause issues for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What temperature is safe for walkies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a general rule, under 19\u00b0C is fine for most dogs. Between 20 and 23\u00b0C you\u2019ll want to take extra care, especially with more vulnerable breeds. Anything 24\u00b0C and above is best avoided. For cats, limit outdoor time during the hottest part of the day and make sure there is always a cool shaded space available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Pavement check: the five-second rule<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you can\u2019t comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds, it\u2019s too hot for your dog\u2019s paws. Burnt pads are painful and may need vet treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When should you walk your dog<\/strong>?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stick to early mornings or late evenings when the sun is lower and the ground is cooler. Midday walks can quickly lead to overheating and are best avoided completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Too warm to walk? Try these instead<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If it\u2019s too hot to head out, you can still keep your pet active and entertained:<\/p>\n\n\n\n