As summer kicks into full swing in Memphis, it’s time to enjoy more time outdoors with our four-legged companions. Whether your pet loves lounging on the porch, chasing frisbees at the park, or just soaking up some rays in the yard, warm weather brings plenty of opportunities for fun, but it also comes with heat-related hazards that can put your pet at serious risk. Cloverleaf Animal Clinic has this guide to keeping your pet happy, hydrated, and healthy during the summer months.

Why Heat Can Be Dangerous for Pets

Pets often don’t have efficient ways to cool themselves down in extreme temperatures. Dogs primarily use panting, and feline and canine species use their paw pads to release heat. This does not cool them like when humans sweat, so our pets are especially vulnerable when temperatures rise. Even short periods of high heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, a life-threatening emergency.

Watch your pet for the following symptoms during summertime, especially after outdoor activity:

• Heavy or labored panting
• Excessive drooling
• Disorientation or unsteady gait
• Lethargy
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Collapse

If you notice these signs, cool your pet gradually. Do not go from one extreme to the other, as this can shock your companion’s system. Offer small sips of water and a cool area to rest. Contact a veterinarian or emergency facility right away.

7 Ways to Protect Your Pet This Summer

Schedule a Pre-Summer Vet Check
A comprehensive wellness exam is a great way to verify that your pet is ready for summer. A veterinarian will review their vaccine status, recommend the right flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives, and check for any health issues that could worsen in heat. It’s the perfect starting point for a season full of safe adventures.

Stay Hydrated
Make sure your pet has access to fresh, cool water at all times. Bring water along for walks, hikes, and trips, just as you would for yourself. For extra cooling, put a few ice cubes into your pet’s water dish. Be sure to clean all water bowls regularly, especially if they are sitting outside.

Choose the Right Time for Walks
Early mornings and evenings are best for exercise. Pavement can burn your pet’s paws in the afternoon sun, and the risk of overheating is highest midday. Not sure if the ground is too hot for your dog? Put your hand against the pavement for a couple of seconds. Was that uncomfortable? Then it’s too hot for pets!

Keep Indoor Spaces Cool
Indoor pets, especially cats, also feel the heat. Use fans or air conditioning and give them access to shaded, cool areas throughout the day.

Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars
Even a few minutes in a car can lead to dangerous heat buildup. Always bring your pet with you or leave them safely at home.

Regular Grooming Matters
Help your pet stay comfortable by brushing away loose fur. Avoid shaving breeds with insulating coats, as they need that fur to regulate body temperature and prevent sunburn.

Be Prepared for Summer Outings
Heading out? Don’t forget water, portable bowls, travel-friendly shade options, a pet first-aid kit, and proper identification like a collar with tags. As an extra precaution, research the nearest emergency vet to your destination location and save their phone number.

Keeping Your Backyard Safe for Pets

Yard safety involves multiple considerations beyond temperature. Store lawn chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides securely. Ensure adequate shade is available in outdoor areas, either through natural vegetation or artificial structures like tarps or umbrellas.

Pool safety requires constant vigilance, as not all pets can swim effectively. Even strong swimmers can tire quickly in warm water. Install barriers, covers, or alarms to prevent unsupervised access, and teach pets where pool steps or exits are located.

Plan for Summertime with Your Pet in Memphis, TN

A safe, enjoyable summer starts with simple but vital habits. From scheduling a wellness check to making sure your pet stays hydrated and shaded, these tips help prevent heat-related emergencies. Cloverleaf Animal Clinic supports pets through every season with vaccinations, parasite prevention, and more in Memphis and for cats and dogs from surrounding areas like Bartlett and Germantown. Make sure your pet is summer-ready. Contact us to schedule a wellness visit.