PHOENIX (PetSmart Press Release)—The dog days of summer are the perfect time to indulge pets in some outdoor fun.

Too much time in the heat, sun or water, however, can pose health and safety risks for pets.

PetSmart offers some easy suggestions to help make this a safe and memory-filled season for pet parents and their pets.

Know when to consult a veterinarian:

“Dog owners should call their veterinarian immediately if during or after outdoor activities they notice excessive panting, sluggish or unresponsive behavior, vomiting or bloody diarrhea, or bright red or pale, dry gums as these are all signs of overheating and possible heatstroke,” said Jennifer Freeman, DVM, PetSmart’s resident veterinarian and pet care expert.

Stay indoors when the temperature is high:

Staying indoors during particularly hot days is often the best option.

If your dog must be outdoors, ensure they have plenty of shade, ample fresh water and a kiddie pool filled with fresh water for cooling dips.


A special elevated bed that gives dogs a ventilated place to rest like the Top Paw Indoor/Outdoor Elevated Pet Bed is also a good option.

Provide protection from hot pavement:

To protect sensitive paws from burning pavement, take dogs for walks on grassy areas and during the early morning or late night hours. A range of reflective accessories like leashes and harnesses and booties can help boost their visibility when the sun isn’t shining.

Life jackets aren’t just for humans:

Summertime pet fun also means trips to the beach, pool, lake or favorite swimming spot. Pet parents should also pay careful attention to ensure pets are safe during water playtime, especially around yards and pools that aren’t gated. A snug-fitting life jacket is a helpful addition when pets are taking a dip.

“Dogs may seem like natural born swimmers, but the truth is they need training just like people,” Freeman said. “I also always recommend having a gated pool when there are new puppies or geriatric or blind dogs in the home as they can fall in the pool and not be able to get out.”

Take extra caution at natural bodies of water like oceans, rivers or lakes so pets don’t drink potentially contaminated water. Bring along a portable water bowl and fresh water.

Collar and ID:

Dogs are especially prone to escaping during the summer months due to fireworks and storm anxiety.

A leash is always a good idea out of the water, along with a collar and proper identification.

“It’s important to make sure your pet is microchipped and that it is registered with up-to-date contact information,” said Freeman.

Provide flea, tick and worm prevention:

With rising summer temperatures, pet parents should also take precautions to keep heartworms, fleas and ticks at bay.

“Monthly flea and tick preventatives are highly recommended and can prevent the spread of disease,” said Freeman. “It’s also important to have your pets on heartworm preventatives as that is a disease transmitted by mosquitos, which are more active during the hot summer months.”

Be sure to keep the grass on your property cut short as ticks like to hide in tall grass and other wooded areas and check pets regularly when they return from being outdoors.

For more ways to keep your pets cool, happy and safe during the hot summer months, visit www.petsmart.com.