An educational and informative moment with Dr. Crainick (left) and Dr. Janosco (right) owners of Markham Woods Animal Hospital in Longwood.

Summer Pet Safety Tips from Markham Woods Animal Hospital

Summer is the perfect time for sunshine, road trips, pool days, and outdoor adventures with your furry family members! At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we want to help keep your pets safe, happy, and healthy all season long. Follow these simple summer pet safety tips so your four-legged bestie can enjoy every sunny moment right alongside you!

Skip the Mid-Day Heat

Early mornings and evenings are the best times for walks and outdoor play. The hottest part of the day, typically between 3:00 and 4:30 p.m.can be dangerous for pets and may lead to overheating.

If you must head out during warmer hours:

• Stick to grassy or shaded areas
• Avoid hot pavement that can burn paws
• Consider protective paw balms or booties

A quick pavement test: If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws!

Keep Fresh Water Nearby

Hydration is essential during the summer months. Whether you’re hiking, visiting the beach, or relaxing in the backyard, always bring fresh water and a portable bowl for your pet.

Remember:

• Pets should not drink salt water
• Lakes and ponds may contain harmful bacteria
• Offer water frequently during outdoor activities

Take Plenty of Breaks

Summer fun can be exhausting for pets. Be sure to schedule regular rest breaks during walks, hikes, or playtime.

Signs your pet may need a break include:

• Heavy or excessive panting
• Slowing down
• Tongue hanging far out of the mouth
• Lethargy or weakness

When in doubt, pause for shade and water.

Protect Pets from the Sun

Yes—pets can get sunburned too! Pets with light-colored fur, thin coats, short hair, or exposed skin are especially vulnerable.

To help protect them:

• Use pet-safe sunscreen
• Apply sunscreen to ears and noses
• Consider lightweight UV-protective clothing

Never use human sunscreen unless approved by your veterinarian.

Practice Smart Water Safety

Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even strong swimmers should always be supervised around water.

Water safety tips:

• Use dog life jackets during boating or swimming trips
• Never leave pets unattended near pools or lakes
• Rinse pets after swimming to remove chlorine or salt
• Prevent pets from drinking pool or ocean water

A little caution goes a long way toward safe summer splashing!

Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car

Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise dangerously fast. Heat stroke can occur within minutes.

Cars can reach:

• Over 90°F in the shade
• Up to 160°F in direct sunlight

The safest choice is always to leave pets at home if they cannot come inside with you.

Know the Signs of Overheating

All pets can overheat, but flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats are at higher risk because they cannot cool themselves as efficiently.

Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

• Excessive panting
• Difficulty breathing
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Weakness or collapse
• Increased heart rate

If your pet appears overheated:

• Move them to a cool or shaded area
• Use lukewarm water to gently cool them
• Place them near a fan
• Offer small amounts of water
• Avoid covering them with wet towels, as this can trap heat.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if symptoms persist.

Schedule a Summer Wellness Visit

Seasonal allergies and summer skin issues can make pets miserable—especially in late summer.

Allergies may cause:

• Itching and scratching
• Ear infections
• Sneezing
• Hair loss
• Skin irritation

A wellness visit can help identify symptoms early and keep your pet comfortable all season long.

Stay Safe & Enjoy Summer!

At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we’re here to help your pets enjoy a safe and healthy summer filled with fun adventures and happy memories. If you have questions about heat safety, allergies, travel, or summer wellness care, our team is always happy to help! Call us at  (407) 682-3233, or drop us an email at [email protected] today.