Hot Weather Safety Tips for Pets in Hebron, Kentucky
Summer in Hebron, Kentucky, brings long days, sunshine, and rising temperatures—which means it’s time to take extra precautions to keep your pets cool and safe.
While we enjoy the sunshine and outdoor activities, our pets can quickly overheat and suffer from dehydration, heatstroke, or burned paws. Here are essential summer safety tips from Hebron Animal Hospital to ensure your furry friends stay healthy and comfortable all season long.
Protecting Paws from Hot Pavement and Surfaces
Just like ice and salt can hurt paws in winter, hot asphalt, concrete, and sand can burn them in summer. On sunny days, these surfaces heat up quickly and can cause serious injury.
- Test the surface: Press the back of your hand to the pavement for 7 seconds—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
- Walk early or late: Schedule walks in the cooler parts of the day—early morning or after sunset.
- Use booties or paw wax: Consider protective footwear or paw balms to provide a barrier from hot surfaces.
- Stick to grass and shaded paths: Avoid blacktop whenever possible.
Preventing Heatstroke in Pets
Heatstroke can be fatal, and it can happen fast. Dogs and cats don’t sweat the way humans do and rely on panting to cool down, making them vulnerable in the heat.
Signs of heatstroke:
- Heavy panting or drooling
- Weakness or collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Bright red or pale gums
- Confusion or unresponsiveness
If you suspect heatstroke:
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded area immediately.
- Offer cool (not ice-cold) water.
- Wet their fur with cool water.
- Call Hebron Animal Hospital immediately at (859) 648-2170.
Keeping Your Pets Cool at Home and Outdoors
- Provide shade: Ensure outdoor pets have access to shade throughout the day.
- Use cooling mats or fans: Indoors or out, cooling pads and pet-safe fans can make a big difference.
- Avoid overexertion: Skip intense exercise on hot days and limit playtime during peak heat hours (10 AM–4 PM).
- Never leave pets in parked cars: Even with windows cracked, temperatures can skyrocket in minutes and be deadly.
Hydration is Key: Summer Drinking Tips for Pets
- Fresh water at all times: Change it regularly, and make sure it’s easily accessible.
- Use multiple bowls: Place water in several spots, especially if your pet spends time in different areas of your home or yard.
- Try pet-safe ice cubes or frozen treats: Great for cooling and hydration—consider freezing low-sodium broth or fruit like watermelon (seedless, of course).
Summer Grooming and Coat Care
- Don’t over-groom: A well-maintained coat helps regulate temperature and protects from sunburn.
- Ask before shaving: For many breeds, shaving can do more harm than good. Speak with a groomer or your vet before cutting hair too short.
- Brush regularly: Helps remove loose fur and allows better airflow to the skin.
Sunburn in Pets: Yes, It Happens!
Pets—especially those with light-colored or thin coats—can get sunburned.
- Apply pet-safe sunscreen on ears, nose, and other exposed areas (never use human sunscreen).
- Limit sun exposure: Especially from 10 AM to 4 PM when the UV index is highest.
Summer Travel & Outdoor Adventures: Safety First
Heading out with your pet? Whether it’s a day trip or vacation, make sure you’re prepared.
- Pack a travel kit: Include water, collapsible bowls, snacks, waste bags, and any medications.
- Use restraint systems: Keep pets safe in the car with a crate or a secured harness.
- Avoid hot car interiors: Temperatures rise quickly, even with windows cracked. Never leave pets unattended.
- Know your destination: Not all parks or trails are pet-friendly. Check rules and hazards ahead of time.
Insect and Parasite Prevention
Summer also means more bugs. Stay up to date on parasite prevention to protect your pet from:
- Fleas and ticks
- Mosquitoes (can carry heartworm)
- Fly bites (especially on ears and noses)
Talk to your vet at Hebron Animal Hospital about the best parasite prevention plan for your pet.
Why Year-Round Parasite Prevention Matters
In Kentucky’s variable climate, parasites can thrive even during mild winters. Many people stop prevention in the cooler months, but that leaves pets vulnerable when temperatures spike or pests move indoors.
Consistent, year-round prevention is the best way to ensure your pet stays protected from painful, costly, and even life-threatening parasitic diseases.
Even one missed dose can leave your pet at risk—so make prevention part of your pet’s routine every month of the year.
🩺 Need help choosing the right parasite prevention for your pet?
Contact Hebron Animal Hospital at (859) 648-2170 to talk with our veterinary team. We’ll help you build a customized, year-round prevention plan based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health needs.
Have Questions About Summer Safety for Your Pet? We’re Here to Help.
At Hebron Animal Hospital, we care about your pets’ health year-round. If you have any concerns about your pet’s summer safety, schedule a checkup or call us at (859) 648-2170. Together, we can keep your pets cool, healthy, and happy in the Kentucky heat.