Summer Pet Safety: Tips for Beating the Heat

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Summer brings sunshine, longer days, and plenty of outdoor fun—but as the temperatures climb, it’s essential to know how to keep dogs cool and protect them from the risks of heat. Dogs in hot weather are more vulnerable to overheating since they don’t sweat like humans do. That’s why heat safety for pets should be a top priority during the warmer months. From pet hydration tips to enrichment ideas and safe outdoor practices, here are our favorite summer safety tips to keep your pup cool, comfortable, and wagging all season long.

1. Hydration is Everything

Water intake is your pet’s best friend in hot weather. Always make sure fresh, clean water is available—indoors, outdoors, and especially during walks or playtime. Try offering frozen bone broth cubes as a hydrating, nutritious treat.


Pro Tip: If your pet eats a raw diet like Steve’s, they’re already getting extra hydration through their food—yet another reason raw feeding supports optimal wellness.

2. Walk Smart, Not Hot

The summer sun can quickly turn sidewalks, streets, and other outdoor surfaces into scorching hot zones that pose a higher risk of injury for your dog’s sensitive paw pads. On hot days, these surfaces can become painfully hot for your furry friends, leading to burns, blisters, or other health issues. To keep your dog safe and comfortable, aim for walks during the cooler parts of the day—early morning or late evening—when the pavement isn’t as hot. Before heading out, always do a quick test by placing your bare hand or foot on the pavement for a few seconds. If it feels too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Being mindful of this simple precaution helps protect your beloved pets from unnecessary pain and keeps their paws healthy throughout the summer months.

Summer Pet Safety

3. Create Cool Zones at Home

Whether you’re indoors or in the backyard, offer your pet shaded or cool areas to rest. Fans, cooling mats, tile floors, and even a damp towel can offer much-needed relief. Some dogs also love a shallow kiddie pool or splash pad to dip into!

4. Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars

Even a quick errand can become dangerous. The temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket in minutes, even with the windows cracked. It’s never safe to leave your dog in the car during warm weather—opt for pet-friendly stores or leave them at home in the A/C.

5. Chill Out with Enrichment

Mental stimulation helps keep pets calm and relaxed indoors with air conditioning when it’s too hot for long adventures. Lick mats, frozen puzzle toys, or Kongs stuffed with Steve’s raw food or goat milk make a cool, enriching treat. This is a great way to add fun and nutrition to their day, even during a heatwave.

6. Know the Signs of Overheating

Watch for signs of dehydration:

  • Excessive panting or drooling
  • Bright red or pale gums
  • Lethargy or confusion
  • Vomiting or diarrhea

 

If your pet shows any of these signs, bring them to a cool area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian immediately.

Summer Should Be Fun—And Safe

From hydration to enrichment, keeping your pet cool in the summer is all about planning ahead and paying attention to their needs. Whether it’s a frozen treat from your freezer or a shady spot in the backyard, small adjustments go a long way toward a pet safe and happy summer.
At Steve’s Real Food, we believe that pet wellness starts with real, raw nutrition—and continues with conscious care every season of the year.

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