Pet Owners Summer Tips: What to Do if Your Dog or Cat Is Struggling with the Heat

As temperatures rise, many pet owners find themselves worrying about how their dogs and cats are coping with the summer heat. Unlike humans, pets can't sweat effectively, which makes them more vulnerable to heat stress, dehydration, and other seasonal dangers. At Good Neighbor Vet, we care deeply about the health and comfort of your pets, which is why we offer a range of preventive care services that can make all the difference during these warmer months.

Here are some essential tips to help your furry family members beat the heat this summer — and how Good Neighbor Vet can support you along the way.

1. Know the Signs of Heat Stress

Pets suffering from heat stress may show symptoms like excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and uncoordinated movements. In severe cases, overheating can lead to heatstroke, which is a life-threatening emergency. If you notice these signs, get your pet to a cooler area immediately and contact your veterinarian.

To help prevent heat-related illnesses, keep your pets indoors during peak heat hours (usually 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and always ensure they have access to shade and fresh water when outside.

2. Hydration is Key

Just like us, pets need plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the summer. Always provide clean, cool water at all times, whether at home, during walks, or on road trips. You can even add ice cubes to their water bowls to keep it cooler longer.

At Good Neighbor Vet, our wellness exams are a perfect opportunity to discuss your pet's hydration needs and get advice tailored to their age, breed, and health status.

3. Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention

Summer is peak season for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes — pests that don’t just cause discomfort but can also transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease, heartworm, and more. Good Neighbor Vet offers affordable vaccines, flea and tick prevention, and heartworm testing to keep your pets protected all season long.

Our convenient mobile clinics throughout the Pacific Northwest make it easy to stay on top of your pet’s health without breaking the bank. Plus, our knowledgeable team can recommend the best parasite preventatives for your pet’s lifestyle.

4. Adjust Exercise Routines

While daily exercise is important, it’s crucial to adapt your dog’s exercise routine during summer. Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Hot pavement can burn their paws, so always check the ground temperature before heading out.

For indoor cats, provide enrichment through play with toys, puzzle feeders, and climbing structures to keep them active without exposing them to the heat.

5. Schedule a Wellness Exam

Scheduling a wellness exam at a Good Neighbor Vet clinic can give you peace of mind heading into summer. A check-up can help identify any underlying health issues that may make your pet more vulnerable to heat stress or dehydration. Our comprehensive exams include vaccinations, heartworm tests, and parasite prevention consultations — everything your pet needs to stay healthy during the hottest months of the year.

6. Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars

This tip bears repeating: never leave your pets unattended in a parked car, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can soar dangerously high within minutes, leading to fatal heatstroke.

Summer should be a time for fun and relaxation, not emergency vet visits. By keeping your pets hydrated, cool, and protected from pests, you can ensure they enjoy the season just as much as you do.

At Good Neighbor Vet, we’re here to help your pets thrive all year long with affordable, accessible, and compassionate preventive care.

Keep your pets safe this summer — visit a Good Neighbor Vet mobile clinic near you for affordable wellness exams, vaccinations, and parasite prevention. Find a clinic location near you today!