Keep Your Pets Chill This Summer: Safety Tips from Your Team at Oriole Road Animal Hospital

As the Kamloops summer heats up, it’s not just you who feels the rising temps—your pets do, too. At Oriole Road Animal Hospital, we know how much joy summer adventures bring, especially when they include your furry family members. But it’s important to remember: dogs and cats are far more sensitive to heat than we are. Sunburns, scorched paw pads, dehydration, and even life-threatening heatstroke are all serious concerns.

The good news? With a little planning and some smart choices, you can help your pets stay cool, safe, and happy all season long. Here’s how:

Why Heat Hits Pets Harder Than Us

Your dog or cat doesn’t sweat the way you do—literally. They rely mostly on panting (and a small amount of sweating through their paw pads) to regulate temperature. Add a fur coat, hot pavement, and a splash of Kamloops humidity, and they can overheat before you even realize there’s a problem.

They also can’t make choices for themselves. That shady spot, cold drink of water, or trip back inside? That’s on us. So, here’s what you can do:

  • Keep fresh, cool water available at all times
  • Make sure your pet always has access to shade
  • Leave them home when it’s too hot for a safe outing
  • Never tether your pet unattended outdoors—shade moves, and tangles happen
  • Book a summer grooming appointment to remove excess undercoat

Our pets love to be part of the action, even when it’s too much. Be their advocate—they won’t always know when to take a break.

Who’s Most at Risk When the Weather Gets Hot?

While all pets need summer precautions, some are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness:

High-Risk Group Why They’re at Greater Risk
Brachycephalic Breeds Short-nosed pets (like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persians) struggle to breathe efficiently in heat. Learn more.
Overweight Pets Extra body fat retains heat and makes cooling harder
Seniors / Pets with Heart or Lung Issues Medical conditions can impair their ability to regulate temperature
Dark or Thick-Coated Pets Their fur absorbs and traps more heat from sunlight

If your pet falls into one of these categories, let’s work together to build a summer plan that fits their needs.

Easing into Summer Activities

After a slower winter, it’s tempting to jump right into long hikes and play sessions—but doing too much too soon can be dangerous.

Here are some safe ways to ease back in:

  • Start with short walks early in the morning or after 7 p.m.
  • Use pet booties to protect tender paws
  • Stick to grassy trails over pavement
  • Watch for heavy panting or lagging behind
  • Consider a grooming session to shed winter coats

Don’t forget to check out Walking On Sunshine: How to Protect Your Pet’s Paws for more tips.

Know the Signs of Heatstroke—And Act Fast

Heatstroke can come on quickly and become life-threatening in minutes. Recognizing the early signs is key.

Watch for:

  • Heavy panting
  • Drooling
  • Agitation or seeking shade
  • Lethargy

Severe signs include:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Bright red or very pale gums
  • Disorientation or collapse
  • Seizures

If you notice any of these:

  1. Move your pet into shade or AC immediately
  2. Offer small sips of cool water
  3. Wet their paws, belly, and groin with damp towels
  4. Use fans if possible
  5. Call your vet right away

Learn more in Too Hot to Handle – Heatstroke in Pets.

Even Mild Heatstroke Can Have Long-Term Consequences

Once a pet overheats, internal damage can continue long after they seem to be improving. That’s why hospitalization and close monitoring are often recommended for 24–72 hours post-incident.

Potential complications include:

  • Kidney or liver failure
  • Blood clotting issues
  • Brain swelling
  • Intestinal damage

More Summer Risks You Might Not Expect

Sunburns

Pets with white fur, pink noses, or thin coats are especially prone to sunburn—particularly on the ears, belly, and nose.

  • Use pet-safe sunscreen (never human products!)
  • Try UV-blocking shirts or suits on sunny days

More on this in ASPCA’s Pet Sunscreen Myths and NBC’s Guide to Sunscreen for Dogs.

 Hot Surfaces

Sidewalks, sand, and decks can get dangerously hot. If you can’t comfortably press your hand to the surface for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.

UV-Related Eye Damage

Breeds with existing eye conditions (like pannus) or light-colored eyes can suffer UV damage. Dog-safe goggles like “Doggles” are a great option for active pets or those at higher altitudes.

Creative Ways to Keep Pets Cool (and Entertained)

Water Play

  • Kiddie pools
  • Sprinklers
  • Lake adventures (with a canine life vest!)

Read: Water Safety Tips for Pets

 Cool Treats & Toys

  • Frozen Kongs stuffed with yogurt or canned food
  • Ice cubes with broth and berries
  • Chillable chew toys

 Cooling Accessories

  • Cooling mats and vests
  • Fans near shaded napping areas
  • Ice-pack beds

Need more ideas? Beat the Boredom with Summer Enrichment

Smarter Outdoor Planning = Safer Pets

Smart Move Why It Helps
Walk early or late Avoid peak heat from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Bring more water than you think Pets can dehydrate quickly
Take breaks in the shade Prevent overheating before it starts
Don’t overhype your pet Excitement can raise body temperature too

Keeping Your Home Cool and Pet-Friendly

Even inside, temps can creep up. Help your pets stay comfy:

  • Keep fans or AC running
  • Let them nap on tile or hardwood
  • Set up cozy spots near vents or breezy windows
  • Use puzzles or nose work for mental stimulation indoors

What About Outdoor Cats?

If your cat loves the outdoors, summer safety still matters:

  • Provide fresh water in multiple shady spots
  • Encourage indoor time during heatwaves
  • Watch for panting, lethargy, or unusual sunbathing

Tips for Keeping Outdoor Cats Safe in Summer

Don’t Forget These Common Hazards

  • BBQ Foods: Onions, grapes, bones, and fatty meats can all be dangerous.
  • Fireworks: Loud noises cause anxiety and escape attempts.
  • Insects: Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are in full force—stay current on preventives.
  • Snakes: Kamloops has native species to watch for. Brush up on regional snake safety.

For more, visit 6 Summertime Dangers for Pets – AAHA

One Last Thing: Never Leave Pets in the Car

Even with windows cracked, the temperature in a parked car can become deadly within minutes. No errand is worth the risk.

Let’s Plan a Safe, Happy Summer Together

If you’re unsure how to prepare for the season, that’s what we’re here for. At Oriole Road Animal Hospital, we’re ready to help you build a customized summer wellness plan—whether your pet is a sun-chaser, a swimmer, or prefers the AC life.

Contact us to schedule your pet’s summer check-up, and let’s make this a safe, memorable season for every member of the family.