Australia’s hot summers can quickly become dangerous for pets, especially as temperatures rise and humidity increases. Knowing how to keep pets safe in the heat and understanding when it’s too hot to walk your dog are essential for preventing heat stress, burnt paw pads and life‑threatening dehydration. By recognising the early signs of heat‑related illness and taking simple precautions such as adjusting walk times, providing shade and offering plenty of fresh water, you can help keep your pet comfortable and protected all summer long.
Whether you’re concerned about dog safety in hot weather, planning outdoor activities or simply wanting to improve your pet’s wellbeing during warmer months, these practical tips from RSPCA NSW will help you make informed, safe choices every day.
Heat stress can be life-threatening even after a few short minutes. Some animals can’t cool themselves down as effectively as humans, especially if they are kept in confined spaces and are unable to move themselves out of the sun or heat (like cages for birds and hutches for small mammals). Here are some tips on how you can keep your pets safe, comfortable, and hydrated during heatwaves and warmer weather.
How to Keep Pets Cool: Shade, Hydration and Cooling Strategies
When it’s hot outside, our pets can struggle to regulate their body temperature. Some species and breeds are particularly vulnerable in the heat. Rabbits and birds don’t cope well in heat and humidity and can quickly succumb to heat stress. Dogs and cats with short faces (known as brachycephalics) commonly suffer from heat stress, which can be fatal.
That’s why it’s important to always ensure they have access to cool, fresh water and plenty of shade.
It’s a good idea to set up multiple water bowls in case one gets tipped over – just make sure you position them out of direct sunlight. If it’s safe for your pet’s age and size, setting up a shallow wading pool gives them another cooling option.
If you can, keep your pets inside on hot days so they can cool themselves on tiled floors or rest in the coolest parts of your home.
Why Hot Cars Are Deadly for Pets – Even for a Few Minutes
Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket to deadly levels within minutes. Never leave pets in cars, not even for a quick errand, and not even with the windows down. If you’re travelling, plan regular stops so that your pets can drink water, enjoy the breeze and cool down.
When Is It Too Hot to Walk Your Dog? Safe Walking Tips for Hot Days
Before heading out, check the pavement with your hand – if the ground is so hot that you can’t hold your hand against it for at least five seconds, then it’s too hot for your dog to walk on. Walking on hot paths and road causes burns to your dog’s feet. These are painful and take a long time to heal.
Try to set out on your walks in the early morning or later in the evening when both the air and ground are typically cooler. Avoid activity during the hottest parts of the day, and avoid exercise for breeds with short faces that overheat very easily, like pugs and bulldogs.
How to Recognise Heat Stress and Heatstroke in Dogs and Pets
Be alert for early warning signs of heatstroke:
- heavy panting
- drooling
- weakness
- vomiting
- collapsing
If your pet shows these symptoms, move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area immediately and offer them small amounts of cool water. Wet their coat with cool water and contact your vet immediately. Keeping them indoors, or using fans or frozen water bottles wrapped in towels, can also provide additional relief. Any wet towel placed on your animal must be replaced regularly so that it does not trap heat around your pet.
Plan Ahead for a Cool, Comfortable Day
Before leaving the house, ask yourself: is my pet safe at home today?
Make sure they have enough water, shade, and airflow to be comfortable in your absence. A fan, a few frozen treats, or even a damp towel lying around for them to rest on can make a big difference in their efforts to keep cool. Remember, if you’re feeling the heat, your pet is too.
With another long, hot summer ahead, prevention is key. Simple steps, like checking water bowls are full and cool, avoiding hot pavement, and recognising early signs of heat stress can save your pet’s life.
Keep them cool, keep them shaded, keep them comfy, and keep an eye on them.
If you suspect your pet has heatstroke, contact your local vet immediately.
You can read our Top 10 Tips to Keep Pets Cool this summer.
