Summer is one of the best times of the year for dogs.
Long walks.
Backyard barbecues.
Camping trips.
Lake days.
Late evenings chasing fireflies.
But while summer brings a lot of fun, it also brings real risks for dogs, and every year, veterinary clinics see preventable emergencies caused by heat, dehydration, hot pavement, and summer toxins.
At Swanky Mutt, keeping dogs safe and comfortable is just as important to us as celebrating the fun parts of summer. And with over 30 years of veterinary technician experience behind our brand, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly heat-related situations can become serious.
The good news?
Most summer emergencies are preventable with a little preparation and awareness.
1. Never Underestimate Heatstroke
Heatstroke is one of the most dangerous summer emergencies for dogs, and it can happen faster than many people realize.
Dogs do not cool themselves the same way humans do. They primarily regulate body temperature through panting, which means they can overheat very quickly in hot or humid weather.
Dogs at higher risk include:
- senior dogs
- brachycephalic breeds, aka "smooshed face dogs" (Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, etc.)
- overweight dogs
- puppies
- dogs with heart or respiratory conditions
- thick-coated breeds
Signs of overheating include:
- excessive panting
- drooling
- bright red gums
- weakness
- vomiting
- confusion
- stumbling
- collapse
If your dog is showing severe signs of heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately. Offer cool (not ice-cold) water, wet them down with cool (not cold) water, and contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic right away.
Important:
Never leave a dog in a parked car - even “for a minute.”
Temperatures inside vehicles can rise dangerously fast, even with windows cracked.
2. Hot Pavement Can Burn Paw Pads
If pavement feels hot to your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Sidewalks, asphalt, truck beds, and even sand can become extremely hot during summer afternoons.
Try the 7-second test:
Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds.
If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s uncomfortable for your dog.
Safer options:
- walk early in the morning or later in the evening
- stick to grass or shaded trails
- use paw protection if needed
Burned paw pads can be painful and sometimes require veterinary care.
3. Hydration Matters More Than You Think
Dogs can become dehydrated quickly during summer activities.
Always provide:
- fresh water
- shade
- breaks during exercise
- cooling opportunities
Signs of dehydration:
- dry gums
- lethargy
- sunken eyes
- excessive panting
- sticky saliva
Portable water bottles and collapsible bowls are excellent for walks, hikes, festivals, and road trips.
4. Watch Out for Summer Party Foods
Backyard cookouts and summer gatherings are fun, but they often include foods that can upset a dog’s stomach or become dangerous.
Common summer hazards:
- corn cobs (can cause obstruction)
- cooked bones (can splinter, causing damage)
- onions (can cause anemia)
- grapes and raisins (can be toxic)
- alcohol (can be toxic)
- chocolate desserts (can be toxic)
- xylitol-containing foods and gum (toxic)
And of course… every dog believes the grill was set up specifically for them. Avoid feeding greasy foods.
Keeping trash secured and reminding guests not to feed table scraps can help avoid an emergency trip to the vet.
5. Fireworks & Summer Storm Anxiety
Summer often means fireworks, thunderstorms, and loud outdoor celebrations.
Even confident dogs can become frightened by sudden loud noises.
Helpful tips:
- create a safe indoor space
- use white noise or calming music
- keep dogs indoors during fireworks
- ensure ID tags and microchip information are current
Every year, many pets go missing after becoming frightened and escaping during fireworks displays.
6. Be Careful Around Water
Not all dogs are natural swimmers.
Always supervise dogs near pools. lakes, rivers, and boats.
Even strong swimmers can become exhausted in deep water or strong currents.
Dog life jackets are a smart idea!
And don’t forget:
pool chemicals and lake algae can sometimes create health risks as well.
7. Summer Bugs & Parasites
Warm weather brings fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.
Preventatives are extremely important during summer months.
Ticks can transmit serious diseases, and mosquitoes can spread heartworm disease.
8. Trust Your Gut
One of the biggest things we’ve learned through years in veterinary medicine:
If something feels wrong, don’t wait too long to ask for help.
Dogs often hide discomfort surprisingly well.
You know your dog better than anyone else. If they seem unusually tired, distressed, overheated, or “not quite right,” trust that instinct.
It’s always better to ask questions early than wait until a situation becomes more serious.
Safe Summers Make the Best Memories
Summer with dogs is one of life’s best things! We just love the porch nights, the muddy paws, the camping trips, the backyard barbecues, the sunset walks, and lazy afternoons in the hammock!
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping those moments safe and happy.
At Swanky Mutt, we believe dogs deserve the good life, especially during summer.
So grab the leash, fill the water bowl, watch out for hot pavement… and go make some memories!