Longer days, sunny skies, water play, trail hikes and beach outings — summer is a season both humans and their furry companions enjoy. But with rising temperatures and outdoor adventures come seasonal dangers for pets, and we see a noticeable uptick in cases during these months. July is also recognized as National Pet Hydration Awareness Month — a timely reminder, as dehydration ranks among the most common pet emergencies seen by veterinarians during the summer.
While we hope your pet never requires urgent care, Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Bellingham is here to help. At our shared facility, BBVSH and Animal Emergency Care work together to provide comprehensive 24/7 support—from emergency stabilization to advanced diagnostics, treatment, and recovery. Whether your pet arrives during the day or after-hours, our teams are in close communication to ensure timely, coordinated care.
Heatstroke and Hydration: Understanding the Risks
Heatstroke occurs when pets cannot regulate their body temperature effectively. Unlike humans, who sweat to cool off, dogs and cats have very few sweat glands — mostly located on their paws. Dogs primarily cool down through panting, while cats may sweat slightly through their paws or increase grooming, using evaporation to shed heat.
One of the most dangerous — and preventable — causes of heatstroke is being left in a parked vehicle. Even on a seemingly mild 70°F day, a car’s interior can soar to 90°F within 10 minutes. Cracking a window offers no real protection. (See our blog on hot cars and pets for advice on what to do if you witness a pet in distress.)
Signs Your Pet May Be Experiencing Heatstroke
Heatstroke can quickly become life-threatening, leading to neurological symptoms, breathing difficulties, irregular heart rhythms, internal bleeding, or death. Watch for:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent, heavy panting that doesn’t ease indoors
- Sudden collapse
- Vomiting and/or severe diarrhea
Which Pets Are Most at Risk?
Several factors can increase your pet’s risk of overheating, including:
- Obesity
- Breed: Large breeds and flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs such as bulldogs, pugs, and French bulldogs are especially vulnerable due to airway anatomy that limits heat regulation.
- High heat or humidity in the environment (e.g., cars, patios, enclosed rooms)
- Poor fitness or lack of acclimation to heat (such as pets visiting a hotter region)
Preventing Heatstroke in Pets
- Never leave pets in parked cars or enclosed, hot rooms
- Limit exercise to early morning or evening hours
- Avoid strenuous activities on hot days
- Keep cats indoors with access to air conditioning
- Bring plenty of water for hikes and outings
- Provide shaded, cool spots indoors and outdoors
- Protect paws from hot pavement — if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their feet
- Ensure pets have constant access to clean, cool water (add ice if needed)
- Groom your pet regularly if their breed requires it
First Aid for Suspected Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you think your pet is overheating, act quickly.
Use the rule: Cool First, Transport Second. Immediate cooling is vital, followed by veterinary evaluation.
Steps to take:
- Move your pet to a well-ventilated, shaded space or use a fan
- Offer small sips of water (never force drinking)
- For healthy pets: Cold water immersion can be effective
- For senior pets or those with health issues: Use evaporative cooling — pour cool (not ice-cold) water over the pet and apply airflow (fan or A/C)
- Avoid using ice water, which can restrict blood flow or trigger shivering
Call your vet or an emergency facility like ours for guidance. Even if your pet seems to recover, serious effects of heatstroke may not show immediately and require professional care.
Veterinarians will check your pet’s temperature and may recommend diagnostic tests, monitoring, or treatment depending on severity.
Why Hydration Matters
Hydration is essential for your pet’s health. Like humans, dogs and cats are about 70% water, and fluid supports everything from temperature control and lung function to circulation and cell health.
Dehydration becomes especially dangerous during summer and can escalate quickly. Keeping water bowls full is important, but sometimes that’s not enough — prompt veterinary care may be needed. Knowing the signs of dehydration can be life-saving.
Symptoms of Dehydration in Dogs and Cats
Dehydration affects both species in similar ways. Watch for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
- Dry nose or mouth
- Sticky gums
- Thick saliva
- Sunken eyes
- Decreased skin elasticity
- Loss of appetite
- Heavy panting
How to Check Your Pet for Dehydration
You can perform a few simple tests at home:
- Skin test: Gently lift the skin between your pet’s shoulders. If it doesn’t quickly snap back, dehydration may be present.
- Gums: Dry or tacky gums are a warning sign.
- Eyes: Look for sunken or dry-looking eyes.
- Observation: Monitor behavior closely, especially during hot weather.
What If Your Pet Is Dehydrated?
If you suspect dehydration, offer fresh water and move your pet to a cool, calm space. Mild cases may resolve with rest and hydration, but persistent or severe symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned, especially if symptoms do not improve.
Stay Safe This Summer
Summer is a time for fun and adventure, but it also comes with serious risks for our four-legged companions. Stay informed, take preventive steps, and never hesitate to seek veterinary advice when your pet’s health is in question.
In cooperation with Animal Emergency Care (AEC), we help facilitate timely, effective 24/7 care for pets experiencing gastrointestinal emergencies. From emergency stabilization to advanced diagnostics or surgical intervention, our teams work closely together to ensure a seamless experience. You can trust that your pet is in capable, compassionate hands—supported every step of the way by experienced professionals dedicated to their health and comfort.
