🌞 Sun's out, tails wagging... but is it safe?
Summer days are perfect for long walks with your furry best friend. But when the sun blazes, risks like overheating and scorched paw pads creep in. Dogs don’t sweat like we do, so they can struggle to stay cool. And sidewalks? They can fry an egg! Let’s make sure your dog stays safe and happy under the sun.
😓 Heatstroke is real – know the signs
Dogs overheat more easily than humans. Warning signs include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, or just lying down and refusing to move. Small breeds, elderly dogs, and short-nosed cuties (we're looking at you, pugs) are especially vulnerable (American Kennel Club, 2022).
🖐️ Pavement test: the 5-second rule
Here’s a quick trick: place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s way too hot for your dog’s paws. Burned paw pads are painful and can take weeks to heal (ASPCA, 2021).
⏰ Best times to walk: early or late
Go for walks early in the morning or after sunset when the ground has cooled down. Midday heat (11:00–16:00) can be brutal, with pavement temps reaching over 50°C (RSPCA, 2023).
🎽 Lightweight gear: designed for summer
When the sun’s out, your dog’s gear should work with the heat, not against it. Choose a harness made from breathable mesh, designed to minimize coverage and maximize airflow, like the Heyday Hiker Lightweight Harness, which stays snug without overheating. Lightweight gear isn’t just stylish—it’s essential for summer safety.
❄️ Cooling collars: extra support in hot weather
Cooling collars are a great addition to your dog’s summer kit, especially during heatwaves. Positioned around the neck—an important spot for thermoregulation—they help lower body temperature gently and effectively. While all dogs benefit from added cooling, short-nosed breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and Shih Tzus often need extra support, as they struggle more to pant and cool themselves. Our Cooling Dog Collar is a simple, low-maintenance way to help your dog stay comfortable and safe on warm days.
💧 Hydration is everything
Never leave home without fresh water and a Portable Folding Pet Bowl. Offer small drinks often—don’t wait until your dog is panting like crazy. Dehydration is a serious risk in the summer (AVMA, 2023).
🦶 After-walk paw care
When you’re back home, give those paws some TLC. Rinse with cool (not ice-cold) water to remove heat and debris. Check for cracks or redness, and pat dry. Think of it as your pup’s post-walk spa moment.
🍃 Summer strolls can be short & sweet
Not every walk needs to be a full-on hike. A shaded park loop, a grassy backyard chase, or even a sniff safari around the block can be enough. Keep things light and fun—your dog will thank you!
😎 Final word: cool walks, happy dogs
With a few smart tweaks, your summer walks can be safe, refreshing, and filled with tail wags. Want more warm-weather tips? Head over to the YMOAs Insight Center for practical advice and pet-friendly inspiration.
📚 References
American Kennel Club. (2022). Heatstroke in dogs. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-heatstroke/
ASPCA. (2021). Summer pet safety. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/hot-weather-safety-tips
RSPCA. (2023). Dogs die in hot cars. Retrieved from https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/dogsinhotcars
AVMA. (2023). Summer pet safety. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/hot-weather-pet-safety