Protect Your Pets from the Dangers of Summer Heat

CHILLICOTHE, OH – There is no denying it, summer 2025 has arrived! As temperatures soar this week and throughout the summer months, Petland reminds pet owners to take extra precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of their beloved pets. Heat-related illnesses and fatalities among pets are a tragic yet preventable occurrence, with one of the most alarming risks being heatstroke from being left in hot vehicles.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), hundreds of pets die each year from heat-related causes, many after being left in a hot car. A study published in Temperature, a peer-reviewed journal, found that on a 95-degree day, the interior of a car can reach 129°F in fewer than 30 minutes. Even at 70 degrees, a parked car can reach fatal temperatures in under an hour. The AVMA warns that cracking a window has little to no effect on these dangerous temperature increases.

“Being outdoors for too long when temperatures are high, or in a hot car for just a few minutes can be dangerous or deadly for a pet,” said Petland’s Veterinary Operations Manager Sarah Hettinger, DVM “Heatstroke can come on fast for many dogs! Our pets don’t sweat like we do. They rely on panting to cool off, which simply isn’t enough in extreme summer heat. It’s up to us to protect them.”

Tips to Protect Your Pet from the Summer Heat

• Never leave your pet in a parked vehicle. Even with windows cracked, temperatures rise rapidly and can become deadly. If you see a pet left in a hot car, call 9-1-1 or animal control immediately.
• Limit outdoor activity. Walk pets during cooler times of the day, early morning or late evening, and avoid strenuous activity in the midday sun.
• Provide constant access to water. Ensure pets always have plenty of fresh, cool water, whether indoors or outside.
• Offer ample shade. If your pet must be outside, provide shaded areas. Dog houses often trap heat and are not adequate shelter from the sun.
• Use cooling products. Cooling mats, vests, and even pet-safe frozen treats can help keep pets comfortable.
• Know and watch for signs of heatstroke. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, weakness, confusion, and even collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cool area immediately, offer small amounts of water, use cool water to wet their coat, and contact your veterinarian.
• Don’t Forget the Pavement. Sidewalks and streets can burn paws on hot days. A good rule is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds, if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.

Together, we can work to ensure all pets stay safe, hydrated, and happy this summer. To learn more about pet summer safety, consult your veterinarian or visit trusted sources like petland.com and the American Veterinary Medical Association at avma.org.

Media contact:  Maria Smith
Communications Director
maria.smith@petlandinc.com
(740) 775-2464

Petland, Inc. is a specialty pet retail franchise operation headquartered in Chillicothe, Ohio since 1967. Petland has operations in the United States and international stores located in Canada, Brazil, China, El Salvador, Mexico, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. For nearly 60 years, Petland pet counselors have been dedicated to matching the right pet with the right customer and meeting the needs of both. To our customers who already have pets, Petland is dedicated to enhancing their knowledge and enjoyment of the human-animal bond. For more information on Petland, visit www.petland.com.