The Ultimate Summer Safety Guide for Dogs & Cats: 10 Tips to Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy

The Ultimate Summer Safety Guide for Dogs & Cats

Summer in Baltimore means longer days, backyard barbecues, trips to the park, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with our pets. While the season brings lots of fun, it also introduces hazards that can quickly turn an enjoyable day into an unexpected trip to the veterinarian.

Whether you're spending time in the backyard, taking your dog for a walk, or planning a weekend adventure, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are our top ten summer safety tips to help keep your pets safe all season long.

1. Always Keep Fresh Water Available

Just like people, pets can become dehydrated quickly during hot weather.

Bring water whenever you're out for more than a few minutes, especially during walks or outdoor activities. Portable water bowls make it easy for dogs to drink on the go, while indoor cats also appreciate extra water stations around the house.

Signs of dehydration may include:

• Dry or sticky gums

• Excessive panting

• Sunken eyes

• Lethargy

• Loss of skin elasticity

If your pet seems dehydrated and isn't improving with rest and water, it's time to have them evaluated by a veterinarian.

2. Avoid the Midday Heat

During the hottest part of the day—typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.—the temperature can become dangerous, especially for dogs.

Try scheduling walks early in the morning or later in the evening when sidewalks and outdoor temperatures are cooler.

Senior pets, puppies, kittens, overweight pets, and flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Persian cats, and Himalayan cats are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness.

3. Protect Those Paws

Hot pavement can burn sensitive paw pads in seconds.

A simple rule is the "7-second test." Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If it's too hot for you to comfortably hold there for seven seconds, it's too hot for your pet's paws.

Whenever possible, choose grassy paths or shaded trails instead.

4. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car

Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can climb rapidly.

On a warm day, the interior of a car can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes, putting pets at risk for life-threatening heat stroke.

If your pet can't come inside with you, it's safest to leave them at home.

5. Be Careful Around Water

Many dogs enjoy swimming, but not every dog is a natural swimmer.

If you're heading to a pool, lake, or the Chesapeake Bay, supervise your pet closely and consider a properly fitted life jacket, especially for smaller dogs or breeds that tire easily.

After swimming, rinse your pet to remove chlorine, salt, or algae, and discourage them from drinking pool or lake water.

6. Watch Out for Summer Foods

Cookouts are a summertime favorite, but many popular foods can upset your pet's stomach—or worse.

Keep pets away from:

• Corn cobs

• Cooked bones

• Grapes and raisins

• Onions and garlic

• Chocolate desserts

• Alcohol

• Foods sweetened with xylitol

It's also a good idea to remind guests not to sneak table scraps to your pets.

7. Stay Ahead of Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes

Summer is peak season for parasites.

Even pets that spend most of their time indoors can be exposed.

Talk with your primary care veterinarian about year-round parasite prevention to help protect your pet from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and the diseases they can carry.

8. Don't Forget Sun Protection

Yes—even pets can get sunburned.

Light-colored pets, hairless breeds, and pets with thin coats are more susceptible to sun damage, particularly on the nose, ears, and belly.

Provide shade whenever your pet is outdoors and limit prolonged sun exposure during the hottest hours.

9. Know the Signs of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is one of the most serious summertime emergencies.

Watch for:

• Heavy or excessive panting

• Bright red gums

• Drooling

• Vomiting

• Weakness

• Collapse

• Disorientation

If you notice these symptoms, move your pet to a cool area immediately and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

10. Trust Your Instincts

You know your pet better than anyone.

If they're acting unusually tired, refusing food, struggling in the heat, or simply "not themselves," don't ignore it.

Prompt evaluation can often prevent a minor issue from becoming a major emergency.

Enjoy a Safe Summer Together

Summer should be full of happy memories with your pets. By planning ahead, staying aware of common seasonal hazards, and acting quickly if something seems wrong, you can help your dog or cat stay safe and comfortable all season long.

Need Urgent Veterinary Care?

If your pet experiences a sudden illness or injury that can't wait for your regular veterinarian, the team at Swan Harbor Pet Urgent Care is here to help.

We offer walk-in urgent care Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., along with daily wellness visits. Our hospital also has free parking directly in front of the building, making it easy to get your pet the care they need when it matters most.

We hope you and your furry family members have a safe, healthy, and fun-filled summer!