Summer is a season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and adventure—but for our dogs, it can also bring hidden dangers. From scorching pavement and sweltering temperatures to toxic algae blooms and unpredictable water conditions, the warmer months require extra care to keep your pup safe and healthy.
Whether you're heading to the lake, exploring local trails, or simply hanging out in the backyard, it’s important to understand how summer affects your dog’s body—and how to adapt their routines for the season.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common warm-weather hazards and share simple ways to prevent them. Plus, we’ll show you how A Place for Paws can help your dog stay cool, active, and enriched all summer long.
Heat Stroke Isn’t Just a Human Problem
Dogs don’t sweat like we do. They rely mostly on panting to cool themselves down, which means they can overheat quickly—especially in hot, humid weather. When a dog’s body temperature rises too high, it can lead to heat exhaustion, and if not addressed, progress to life-threatening heat stroke.
Early signs to watch for:
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Heavy panting or drooling
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Bright red gums or tongue
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Lethargy, confusion, or unsteadiness
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Vomiting or diarrhea
Flat-faced breeds (like bulldogs and pugs), senior dogs, puppies, and those with thick coats or excess weight are especially at risk. But any dog can overheat if they’re too active in the heat or left in a hot space—even briefly.
Prevention Tips:
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Avoid midday walks; stick to mornings or evenings
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Never leave your dog in a parked car (even with windows cracked)
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Provide shade and cool water during outdoor activities
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Keep an eye on your dog’s energy level and breathing
If you notice signs of overheating, move your dog to a cooler area immediately, offer water, and contact your vet.
Hot Pavement = Burned Paws
On sunny days, asphalt and concrete can become dangerously hot—reaching temperatures high enough to burn your dog’s paw pads in just seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their feet.
How to protect your dog’s paws:
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Test with your hand: Place your palm or bare foot on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s unsafe for your dog.
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Adjust walk times: Stick to early morning or after-sunset outings when surfaces have cooled.
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Use paw protection: Dog booties or a natural paw balm can provide a barrier between paws and pavement.
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Opt for grass or dirt trails when possible.
Signs of burned paw pads include limping, licking feet, darkened pads, or visible blisters. If this happens, rinse with cool water, keep your dog off their feet, and contact your vet.
Don’t Let Dehydration Sneak Up
In the summer heat, dogs lose more fluids through panting and can become dehydrated quickly—especially during exercise or outdoor play. Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, overheating, and stress on vital organs.
Watch for signs like:
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Dry nose or gums
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Thick, sticky saliva
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Sunken eyes
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Lethargy or weakness
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Skin that doesn’t snap back when gently pinched
How to keep your dog hydrated:
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Always bring water when you’re on the go—don’t rely on natural sources like lakes or puddles, which could be contaminated.
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Encourage drinking by offering fresh water frequently, especially after activity.
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Make it enticing with bone broth or goat milk ice cubes (just be sure they’re free of added salt or seasoning).
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Add hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon (no seeds or rind), or raw goat milk to meals.
Hydration is just as essential as exercise—especially in the summer. Keeping your dog’s water needs met can prevent a long list of seasonal health issues.
Water Safety Isn’t Just for Humans
While many dogs love to swim, not all are natural swimmers—and even strong swimmers can get tired, disoriented, or overwhelmed in water. Accidents can happen quickly, whether you’re at the lake, on a boat, or near a backyard pool.
Key water safety tips:
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Use a dog life jacket: Especially for boating, deep water, or new swimmers. Choose one with a handle on top to help lift your dog out if needed.
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Always supervise: Never leave your dog unattended near water, even if they’ve swum before.
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Teach safe entry and exit: Make sure your dog knows how to get in and out of pools safely. Ramps or steps are a must.
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Rinse after swimming: Chlorine, salt, or bacteria can irritate skin and coat. A quick rinse keeps them clean and comfortable.
Water play can be fantastic exercise and stimulation—but only when done safely. That’s why A Place for Paws offers a secure, clean pool designed just for dogs. (More on that soon.)
Beware of Toxic Algae Blooms
On a hot day, a swim in a pond or lake might seem like a great idea—but not all natural water is safe. Certain algae blooms, especially blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), can be highly toxic to dogs—even deadly.
These blooms thrive in warm, stagnant water and often look like green paint or scummy film on the surface. Unfortunately, even small amounts—whether swallowed while swimming or licked off fur—can cause rapid and severe illness.
Signs of blue-green algae poisoning may include:
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Excessive drooling
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Weakness or tremors
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Difficulty breathing
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Seizures or collapse
If you suspect exposure, get to a vet immediately—this is a medical emergency.
To protect your dog:
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Avoid any water that looks murky, slimy, or discolored
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Check for local advisories before visiting lakes or ponds
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Rinse your dog thoroughly after any swim in natural water
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When in doubt, don’t let them swim or drink from unknown sources
If you want the peace of mind that comes with clean, filtered water, consider renting time in a professionally maintained dog pool—like the one at A Place for Paws.
Safe Summer Exercise Without the Risk
Exercise is essential for your dog’s physical and mental well-being—but when the temperatures soar, your usual walk or backyard play session can do more harm than good. That doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out on movement. It just means it’s time to get creative.
Here’s how to keep your dog active without the overheating:
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Skip the pavement and head out early or late for walks
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Engage in indoor games like scent work or puzzle toys
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Try water-based movement, which is low-impact and cooling
One of the safest (and most fun) ways to keep your dog moving in the summer is swimming in a controlled environment. That’s why we offer private pool rentals at A Place for Paws—a secure, climate-controlled space designed specifically for dogs.
Whether your dog is a confident swimmer, needs physical therapy, or just wants to splash and play, our pool is the perfect solution for summer exercise—without the risks of heatstroke, hot pavement, or unknown water hazards.
Keep Their Minds Active — Without Overheating
Summer heat can make outdoor play tough—but your dog still needs mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Boredom can lead to stress and unwanted behaviors, so it’s important to provide engaging activities that don’t rely on physical exertion in the sun.
Our sensory room at A Place for Paws offers a cool, calming environment packed with textures, scents, and puzzles designed to engage your dog’s natural curiosity and senses. It’s the perfect way to keep your dog mentally sharp and relaxed during hot days when outdoor activity isn’t ideal.
From nose work to gentle interactive games, your pup can enjoy enriching experiences that support their emotional and cognitive well-being—without overheating or stress.
Conclusion: Keep Your Dog Safe, Cool, and Happy This Summer
Summer brings endless opportunities for fun, but it also requires mindful care to protect your dog from heat stroke, burned paws, dehydration, and hidden dangers like toxic algae. With the right precautions and alternatives, you can help your dog stay safe, active, and enriched all season long.
If you want a worry-free way to keep your dog moving, consider renting our dog pool at A Place for Paws—perfect for low-impact exercise without the heat risks. And when the sun is blazing, our sensory room offers a cool retreat full of engaging activities to keep your dog’s mind sharp and spirits high.
Book your pool time or sensory room session today and give your dog the gift of safe, summer fun.
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