Beating the Summer Florida Heat: How to Keep Your Pet Cool This Summer

By Heather McLaren | Owner of Advanced Animal Transport

Florida temperatures can be harsh on pets. It is important to be knowledgeable about the dangers of summer heat for all pets, including dogs and cats. Temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be dangerous for dogs to walk on. This can lead to damaged pads via burns. Heatstroke is also a serious risk that can be fatal. It is important to focus on keeping pets as cool as possible to reduce the chances of the above symptoms.

To keep pets cool indoors during the Florida summer weather, the following elements are important to include in your pet’s activities:

Provide Air Conditioning.

        Even indoors, if temperatures reach above 85 degrees pets can become overheated, suffering from hyperthermia. Mayo Clinic defines hyperthermia as “a dangerously overheated body, usually in response to prolonged, hot, humid weather.” Florida is exactly that, hot and humid. It is important to routinely check on your home air conditioner to reduce any chances of it breaking while away at work and your pet is home.

Maintain Hydration. 

        Pets, especially dogs, should consume water often to keep themselves cool. Dogs pant, rather than sweat, which makes them lose water and will need to consume more to reduce dehydration. Fresh, cool water, not ice cold should be available at home, during car rides, and at the park.

Create Cool Spots. 

        Tiled areas such as a kitchen or bathroom will provide better cooling than carpeted areas. If the only cool place is located in the kitchen, verify that the tile does not have direct sunlight hitting the area. Products are available online for cooling mats and pet beds as options for cooling your pet down as well.

To keep pets cool outdoors during extreme temperatures in Florida, the following should be considered:

Finding Shade. 

        Trees offer shade and cooler areas for pets to play. If trees aren’t readily available, larger umbrellas can offer an alternative canopy. During outside play time, it is important to also include shade time. If asphalt is not covered by shade, it can become scorching to paws above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Grass should be used instead of asphalt, provided the area is safe for pedestrian traffic.

Portable Hydration. 

        As mentioned earlier, dogs do not sweat, but rather lose water through their mouth due to panting. Portable water bowls in the shape of water bottles with a bowl on top are a perfect product for outside activities. Due to diseases, be careful about communal water bowls if it is the only option.

Time Walks For Morning and Evening. 

        Dawn and dusk, where there is still light, are cooler times to get your pets outside to stretch their legs. Dog walking is important as it allows dogs to sniff their surroundings and become enriched through socialization. Reducing play time during the hottest part of the day reduces chances of becoming overheated and suffering from symptoms mentioned above such as heatstroke and burned paws.

Additional ways to keep your pet cooler this summer includes:

Crafting frozen treats.

Know the signs of heatstroke and what to do.

Never ever leave your pet in a parked car.

          Pet owners should take precautions before the summer temperatures in Florida become an issue. Prepare for making adjustments to routines to keeping furry friends safe during extremely hot weather. Familiarize with the information above to reduce any chances of overheating.

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