Summer is meant for adventures, long walks, backyard lounging and making memories with our pets. But August can also bring some very real risks for dogs and cats.
From hot pavement and dehydration to parasites and backyard BBQ hazards, a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping your pet safe and comfortable.
Here are eight things we want every Parkdale pet parent to know before the summer slips away.
1. Heat Can Become Dangerous Quickly
Our pets don’t handle heat the same way we do. Dogs primarily cool themselves by panting, while cats are generally less efficient at cooling themselves in hot conditions.
Heatstroke can happen surprisingly quickly, particularly in hot, humid weather. Dogs with short or flat faces, older pets, overweight pets, and those with certain medical conditions can be especially vulnerable.
Watch for signs of overheating, including:
- Excessive or heavy panting
- Drooling
- Restlessness or difficulty settling
- Weakness or wobbliness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Bright red, pale, or abnormal-looking gums
- Collapse or loss of consciousness
Heatstroke is an emergency. If you think your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, contact a veterinary hospital immediately.
On hot days, keep pets somewhere cool and well-ventilated, provide plenty of fresh water, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
2. Hot Pavement Can Burn Your Dog’s Paws
If the pavement is too hot for your bare hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Asphalt and concrete can become extremely hot during the summer. Paw-pad burns can be painful and may not always be obvious until after your walk.
Try taking walks early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are lower. Whenever possible, choose grass, shaded paths, or other cooler surfaces.
A simple test is to place the back of your hand against the pavement for several seconds. If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s likely uncomfortable for your dog’s paws too.
And remember: a dog wanting to continue walking doesn’t necessarily mean the conditions are safe.
3. Fresh Water Should Always Be Available
Whether you’re at home, going for a walk, heading to the cottage, or spending the afternoon at the park, make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water.
Bring water and a portable bowl when you’re out and about, and offer your pet regular opportunities to drink.
Keep an eye on pets who are playing or exercising, too. They may become so excited that they don’t recognize they’re getting overheated.
If your pet suddenly seems unusually thirsty, lethargic, weak, or unwell, don’t assume it’s simply the heat. A significant change in drinking or behaviour can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical problem.
4. Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car
This one deserves repeating every summer:
Please don’t ever leave your pet in a parked vehicle.
Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can become dangerously hot very quickly. Parking in the shade or leaving the air conditioning running isn’t a reliable substitute for bringing your pet somewhere safe and cool.
If you’re running errands, leave your pet at home where they can stay comfortable.
They’ll be much happier waiting for you there.
5. Parasite Prevention Isn’t Just a Spring Thing
If you’re tempted to think that flea and tick prevention isn’t as important later in the summer, think again.
Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes remain active throughout the warmer months, and parasites can cause much more than an itchy pet.
Ticks can transmit disease, fleas can cause significant skin irritation and allergic reactions, and mosquitoes can transmit heartworm.
Staying consistent with your veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention is one of the easiest ways to protect your pet.
If you’re not sure whether your pet is appropriately protected—or if you’ve missed a dose—give our team a call. We’d be happy to help you determine what protection is appropriate for your pet’s lifestyle.
6. Your BBQ Might Be More Dangerous Than You Think
Summer BBQs and backyard gatherings are fun for everyone—especially pets who are hoping someone drops something delicious.
Unfortunately, some of the foods and objects that are common at summer gatherings can lead to an emergency veterinary visit.
Keep potentially dangerous items away from curious pets, including:
- Corn cobs
- Cooked bones
- Skewers and kebab sticks
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions and garlic
- Chocolate
- Foods containing xylitol
- Very fatty or greasy foods
- Alcohol
- Garbage and food scraps
Corn cobs and skewers are particularly concerning because they can cause serious intestinal blockages if swallowed.
And don’t forget about the garbage. A determined dog can turn a seemingly harmless BBQ cleanup into a midnight emergency.
When in doubt, keep the people food and garbage securely out of reach.
7. Water Adventures Still Require Safety
Some dogs seem to be born for the water. Others would prefer to keep all four feet firmly planted on dry land.
Either way, never assume your pet is automatically a strong or safe swimmer.
If you’re heading to a pool, lake, or cottage:
- Supervise pets around water.
- Consider a properly fitted life jacket for dogs who are swimming or boating.
- Make sure your pet has a safe way to get out of the water.
- Don’t allow pets to drink excessive amounts of pool or lake water.
- Be cautious around unfamiliar bodies of water.
If your dog is swimming in a lake, it’s also worth being aware of local water-quality advisories and potential blue-green algae. For more information click here <https://www.ontario.ca/page/blue-green-algae>.
And remember that not every dog enjoys swimming. Never force a nervous pet into the water.
8. Know When Something Isn’t Quite Right
One of the most important things you can do for your pet is to know what is normal for them.
If your normally energetic dog suddenly doesn’t want to get up, your cat is hiding more than usual, or your pet’s appetite, drinking, breathing, bathroom habits, or behaviour changes significantly, pay attention.
Pets can’t tell us when something hurts or when they don’t feel right. Sometimes the earliest indication of illness is simply that they’re acting differently.
Contact your veterinarian if you’re concerned, especially if you notice signs such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse or extreme weakness
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
- Severe or sudden pain
- Seizures
- Difficulty urinating
- Significant changes in appetite or water consumption
- Sudden changes in behaviour
- Suspected poisoning or ingestion of a foreign object
- Signs of heatstroke
When you’re worried about your pet, it’s always okay to call and ask. You will never bug us…we promise!
Summer Should Be About Adventures—Not Emergency Visits
The good news is that many summer pet emergencies are preventable with a little planning.
Choose cooler times for walks. Keep fresh water available. Stay consistent with parasite prevention. Keep BBQ foods and garbage safely out of reach. Supervise pets around water. And most importantly, pay attention when your pet is telling you that something doesn’t feel right.
A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping your pet safe, comfortable and happy all summer long.
If you have questions about heat safety, parasite prevention, your pet’s summer activities, or anything else concerning your pet, the Parkdale Animal Hospital team is here to help.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us—we’d much rather answer a question early than see your pet when a preventable problem has become an emergency.
Enjoy the rest of summer, Parkdale pets! 🐾
About Parkdale Animal Hospital
At Parkdale Animal Hospital, we believe that good veterinary care isn’t just about treating illness. It’s also about helping pet owners understand their pets and feel confident caring for them at home.
We’re proud to provide compassionate, individualized care for pets throughout every stage of life.
Have a question about your pet? Call Parkdale Animal Hospital at 519-885-1200 to speak with our team or click here to book an appointment.