7 summer pet safety tips every dog parent needs to know are essential for keeping your dog safe, cool, and calm during the hottest months of the year. Whether it’s fireworks, heatwaves, or backyard BBQs, summer brings unique hazards that every dog parent should be aware of. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most important things you can do to help your furry friend thrive this season — from hydration and anxiety support to paw protection and pool safety. Consider this your pet parent summer survival kit!
7 summer pet safety tips every dog parent needs to know
Summer should be full of tail wags and sunshine — not vet visits. Whether you’re planning beach days, BBQs, or just more outdoor time with your pup, it’s important to know how to keep them safe when the temperature rises. These dog safety tips are designed to help you avoid common summer hazards while keeping your best friend happy and healthy all season long.
7 summer pet safety tips every dog parent needs to know
These aren’t just common-sense reminders — they’re proactive strategies that could save your pet’s life. Heatstroke, dehydration, anxiety, and exposure to harmful substances spike during the summer months. Let’s make sure your pup stays safe, stylish, and stress-free all season long.
1. Keep your dog hydrated at all times
Hydration is absolutely vital during the summer, especially for dogs that spend time outdoors. Always make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water — indoors and out. During hot spells, increase the number of water bowls around the house and add ice cubes to make it more appealing.
If you’re heading to the park, beach, or on a hike, bring a portable water bottle with a built-in bowl or a collapsible dish. For extra hydration support, offer chilled watermelon chunks (seedless, in moderation) or frozen dog-safe broth cubes as a treat. Dehydration signs include lethargy, sunken eyes, dry gums, and excessive panting. If you notice these, act fast — it can escalate quickly in the heat.
2. Never leave pets in parked cars
This can’t be overstated — even on a 75°F day, the inside of a parked car can soar past 100°F in just 10 minutes. Leaving your pet in a car, even with the windows cracked, can be deadly. Heatstroke sets in rapidly and can lead to irreversible organ damage or death.
If you’re running errands and can’t bring your dog inside every stop, it’s safer to leave them at home. Many cities now allow emergency responders to break into vehicles to rescue dogs in danger — and some states are pressing charges for endangerment. Don’t risk it, even for “just a minute.”
3. Protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement
Sidewalks, asphalt, and even sand can reach blistering temperatures during the summer. Use the “7-second test” — place the back of your hand on the surface. If it’s too hot for you to hold for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Consider adjusting your walk schedule to early mornings and evenings when surfaces have cooled down. Lightweight, breathable booties can offer extra protection. Look for signs of paw burn like limping, licking the feet, or blisters. A dog-safe balm can also help soothe and protect their pads.
4. Create a calm space during fireworks or parties
Summer parties and holiday celebrations are fun for humans but stressful for dogs. Fireworks in particular can trigger panic in even the chillest pups. Prepare by creating a “safe zone” indoors where your dog feels secure — think cozy blankets, favorite toys, and white noise or calming music.
If your dog has severe anxiety, talk to your vet about calming supplements or anxiety wraps. ThunderShirts, for example, apply gentle pressure that mimics swaddling. Keep windows and curtains closed to minimize flashes and loud sounds. You can also try desensitization techniques leading up to fireworks-heavy holidays.
5. Stay up-to-date on flea and tick protection
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in warm weather — and they can carry diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis, and heartworm. Check that your flea and tick preventative is current and appropriate for your dog’s size, lifestyle, and region.
After outdoor adventures, give your dog a quick scan: check behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. Bathe your dog regularly and wash their bedding weekly. Natural repellents like lemon eucalyptus spray or cedarwood-infused shampoos can offer extra defense (but always vet-approved).
6. Practice pool and lake safety
Swimming is great exercise and a fun way to cool off, but not all dogs are natural swimmers. Never assume your pup will instinctively know how to stay afloat. Invest in a canine life vest — especially if you’re boating, heading to a deep lake, or spending time near a pool without a gradual exit.
Always supervise dogs around water, just like you would with children. Rinse your pup off after swims to remove chlorine, salt, or algae. And be cautious around stagnant water or blue-green algae blooms — they’re toxic and can be fatal if ingested.
7. Keep dangerous foods and plants out of reach
Summer BBQs can be a minefield for pets. Guests may mean well but end up sharing toxic treats like grapes, chocolate, onions, or ribs with splinter-prone bones. Make sure everyone knows your dog isn’t allowed “people food.”
Secure trash bins and compost piles, and avoid using citronella candles or tiki torch fuel near your dog’s hangout zone. Watch out for seasonal plants like lilies, sago palm, and azaleas — they’re common in yards and highly toxic to dogs. When in doubt, keep your pup supervised and snacks sealed.
Bonus: Know the signs of overheating
Heatstroke can sneak up on you fast. Early signs include rapid panting, drooling, red gums, lethargy, and vomiting. If left untreated, it can cause collapse or seizures. Move your dog to a cool area immediately, offer water, and use wet towels to bring their body temp down.
Every dog parent should know where their nearest 24-hour emergency vet is located — just in case.
Help your pet stay cool and stylish
Looking for dog fashion that’s built for summer? We’ve got you. Our bandanas, collars, and accessories are made with breathable fabrics and gentle closures so your dog can look cute and stay comfy. Try gingham, florals, or lightweight cotton in seasonal colors.
Need more inspiration? Browse our Dog Fashion and Cat Fashion collections. Want to dress things up? Visit Creative Fun for playful, safe outfit ideas that shine in the sun.
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