The first warm breeze of summer always carries a certain magic. Here in Saguenay, it’s the scent of pine warming on the wind, the rustle of river grasses, and the stillness of a dog stretched out under the porch—ears twitching, paws dusty, breath slow. But with the sweetness of summer comes a quiet responsibility for those of us who care for animals.
Heat can be hard on our pets. And while many assume that fur means protection, the truth is more complex. As the days grow hotter, it’s important to understand how summer affects our dogs and cats, and what we can do to keep them cool, safe, and well cared for.
The Quiet Risks of Summer
We sometimes forget how close to the ground our pets live. Their paws walk hot pavement. Their bodies feel the heat rising off gravel and tar. Unlike us, they don’t sweat to cool off. Instead, they pant, seek shade, or try to cool down through their paw pads and bellies.
Heatstroke can creep in slowly, especially on humid days when there’s little breeze. Dogs with short snouts, thick coats, or heart issues are at greater risk. But even young, healthy animals can struggle in the wrong conditions.
Hydration is Everything
Make fresh, cool water available at all times. In the summer months, I carry a thermos just for my dogs—nothing fancy, just something that keeps water cool when we’re out by the river or in the field. Change their bowl water often, and make sure it’s shaded. A metal bowl in the sun becomes a skillet.
You can even freeze broth cubes (low sodium, pet-safe) as a treat or add a few to their water to encourage drinking.
The Danger Beneath Their Paws
Try walking barefoot across a sunlit driveway. If you pull your foot back, imagine your dog’s paws. Asphalt, sand, concrete—they can all cause burns within minutes.
Before you head out, place your hand or bare foot on the pavement for ten seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Shift walks to early mornings or late evenings, and choose grassy trails or forest paths when you can.
Shade and Shelter: Simple Acts of Care
Shade doesn’t have to mean fancy canopies. An old bedsheet strung between trees, a tarp, or even the shadow of a wooden shed can give relief. Make sure outdoor pets have access to these spaces at all times.
Inside, a fan placed low (never blowing directly at them) can help with airflow. Some pets prefer this over air conditioning, which can dry their airways.
Cooling Tips from the Field
I’ve known old sled dogs who stood in shallow creeks for hours on hot days. Water on paws and ears can bring relief. A damp cloth gently applied to the belly, groin, and underarms can cool the blood near the surface.
Avoid full baths with cold water—they can shock the system. Instead, go slowly and always watch for signs of stress.
Frozen carrots, cucumber slices, and those broth cubes I mentioned earlier can offer fun, cooling enrichment. Just remember to keep an eye on calories for smaller pets.
Know the Signs of Overheating
If your pet:
- Is panting excessively
- Has glazed eyes
- Vomits or has diarrhea
- Becomes unsteady or collapses
- Has a deep red or purple tongue
…they may be suffering from heatstroke. Move them to a shaded area immediately. Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water. Wet their paws and ears gently. Then get veterinary help as soon as possible.
Do not use ice baths or immerse them fully in cold water. The sudden temperature change can do more harm than good.
A Final Thought from the Porch
One of my dogs, Marlowe, loves to lie on the porch in July—right where the sun hits first in the morning. I let him, but I watch. When his breathing shifts, or his paws twitch against the heat, I call him into the shade.
Caring for animals in the summer is mostly about noticing. Noticing the small signs, the subtle shifts, the rhythms of heat and thirst and shelter. It’s a quiet kind of stewardship—one that comes with love, patience, and a good eye.
Enjoy the sunshine. Let your pets enjoy it too. Just do it with care.
Mélanie Gagnon,
Pet Care Advisor
The Posh Paw Blog 
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