Summer Pet Safety Tips for Baltimore Dog and Cat Owners: Baltimore Summers Can Be Tough on Pets

Summer is a great time for outdoor adventures, vacations, walks, and family gatherings.

But warmer temperatures can also create serious health risks for pets.

Summer Fun

At Swan Harbor Pet Urgent Care, summer often brings an increase in heat-related illnesses, paw injuries, allergic reactions, and gastrointestinal problems.

Knowing the most common summer dangers can help keep your pets safe all season long.

Watch Out for Hot Pavement

Sidewalks and asphalt heat up quickly during Maryland summers.

If the pavement feels too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

Burned paw pads can cause:

• Limping

• Blisters

• Redness

• Pain while walking

Try walking dogs:

• Early in the morning

• Later in the evening

• On grass whenever possible

Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is one of the most serious summer emergencies in pets.

Symptoms may include:

• Heavy panting

• Excessive drooling

• Weakness

• Vomiting

• Bright red gums

• Collapse

• 
  

Never leave pets in parked vehicles, even for a few minutes.

Summer BBQ Foods Can Be Dangerous

Cookouts and outdoor parties often include foods that can upset your pet’s stomach.

Common hazards include:

• Corn cobs

• Cooked bones

• Onions

• Grapes

• Alcohol

• Fatty foods

Even small amounts can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or dangerous intestinal blockages.

Protect Pets From Ticks and Fleas

Ticks are very active during Maryland summers and can spread disease to both pets and humans.

Check pets regularly after:

• Hiking

• Park visits

• Outdoor play

• 
  

Preventative medications are one of the best ways to reduce risk.

Water Safety Matters Too

Not all dogs are strong swimmers.

Always supervise pets around:

• Pools

• Lakes

• Beaches

• Boats

Rinse pets after swimming to help prevent skin irritation and ear infections.

FAQs

How hot is too hot to walk a dog?

If outdoor temperatures are high enough to make pavement uncomfortable for your hand, it may burn your dog’s paws.

What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?

Heavy panting, weakness, vomiting, drooling, collapse, and bright red gums may all indicate heatstroke.

Can dogs get sick from BBQ foods?

Yes. Corn cobs, bones, onions, fatty foods, and grapes can all cause serious illness in dogs.

When should I seek urgent care for my pet in summer?

Seek veterinary care if your pet shows signs of overheating, vomiting, limping, allergic reactions, or sudden illness.

Keeping Baltimore Pets Safe This Summer

Summer should be fun for both pets and their families. By taking a few extra precautions, Baltimore pet owners can help prevent many common warm-weather emergencies.

If your pet becomes sick or injured this summer, Swan Harbor Pet Urgent Care is here to help.