Summer Dog Safety: Why I'll Never Take Dog Safety Lightly Again

They say dogs are resilient creatures. And in many ways, they are. But what I learned one summer morning changed the way I care for my pets forever. As someone who has shared life with dogs, cats, birds, snakes, and even a pig or two, I always considered myself a knowledgeable pet mom.

I grew up surrounded by animals, and caring for them has always been second nature. But sometimes, life throws you a wake-up call so loud you can’t ignore it.

This is the story of how I almost lost my puppy to heatstroke and why I’m sharing this now, in hopes it helps another dog lover avoid the same mistake.

A Morning Walk Gone Wrong

It was early June, and I had just brought home a 16-week-old Golden Doodle puppy named Theo. He was curious, full of energy, and had that perfect puppy silliness that made every step fun to watch.

We were both early risers, and one of our favorite things to do was walk along the beach near my sister's in Florida. The sun had just risen, and I thought, "Perfect it’s still cool, we’ll get in some exercise, burn some pup energy, all before the heat sets in."

I packed a small bottle of water, grabbed his leash, and off we went. Theo trotted beside me, stopping every few feet to smell (or pee on) everything, and collect compliments from early-morning joggers.

About 40 minutes in, I noticed Theo slowing down. Not just a little. I quickly went into a restaurant and got him a big bowl of water and got him into the A/C. To late, he looked up at me with eyes that seemed foggy and confused. I offered water he didn’t take it. I kneeled down, called his name, and when he tried to stand, his legs gave out.

I scooped him up and ran to the car to get him to the vet.

The Scariest Drive of My Life

I rushed him to our family vet, with a drive that felt like hours. By the time we arrived, Theo was panting uncontrollably, drooling heavily, and completely limp in my arms. They rushed him in, started cooling treatments, IV fluids, oxygen, and an alcohol bath under his pits.

It was heatstroke. At just after 8 a.m. in the morning.

I was stunned. It wasn’t even that hot yet. Or so I thought.

What I Learned That Day

Theo pulled through. Thanks to the fast work of the veterinary team, he made a full recovery, and a dog who still loves the beach but only at sunrise or after dusk, and only with plenty of water breaks and shade.

Here’s what I wish I had known sooner:

1. Dogs Overheat Fast, Even When It Feels 'Cool' to Us

Their fur coats and limited ability to sweat make it much harder for dogs to regulate body temperature. Pavement, sand, and even warm air can quickly become dangerous. If it’s above 75°F and humid, I now think twice before taking my dogs out.

2. Puppies and Older Dogs Are Especially Vulnerable

Theo was a puppy, and puppies don’t regulate temperature as well. Neither do older dogs, brachycephalic breeds (like bulldogs and pugs), and dogs with medical conditions. What’s okay for one dog may be dangerous for another.

3. Early Morning Doesn’t Always Mean Safe

That day taught me that just because the sun is low doesn’t mean the heat isn’t accumulating fast. Humidity and lack of wind can make the heat index much higher than it appears.

4. Water and Shade Are Non-Negotiable

Now, anytime we’re outside in the summer, I bring multiple water sources, and ensure there’s shade along the ways whether it’s under a tree or inside.

Never ever place an overheated dog in a pool, bath, or cool water as it can cause a cardiac arrest (per our vet) and get them to a vet asap. Scary!

5. Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heavy panting, drooling, red gums, disorientation, weakness, vomiting, and collapse are all signs of heatstroke. If your dog shows any of these, immediately move them to a cooler space and call your vet.

Summer Now Looks Very Different for Us

These days, I plan our summer outings with precision. Morning walks are shorter and even earlier. We use cooling beds indoors too. We avoid car rides during the heat of the day.

When I think back to that day on the beach, I still get a pit in my stomach. The thought of losing Theo over something completely preventable is scary. It still haunts me.

Now I channel that energy into education and preparation. Every summer I share my story with other dog parents in hopes that it can help. We even made indoor cooling blankets and beds here at Paw.com to help others out.

A Reminder to All Pet Parents

Summer is fun. It’s adventure, travel, sunshine, and making memories. But it can also be risky for our furry family members if we’re not vigilant.

If this post can help even one dog lover avoid what I went through, then sharing it is worth it. Your dog trusts you to keep them safe. Learn from my mistake don’t wait for a wake up call.

Some Quick Summer Safety Tips to Remember:

Walk early or late (before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m.)
Test the ground with your hand if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws
Always carry water and a collapsible bowl
Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few seconds
Watch for warning signs of overheating

Thank you for reading my story. Wishing you and your pup a safe, happy, and very cool summer!

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