Key Seasonal Risks and How to Prevent Them

Contributions from Dr. Sara E. Gonzalez, DVM, MS, DABVP (Canine & Feline Practice)

Summer is a time for fun and outdoor adventures with our pets, but it also brings several seasonal health hazards. Here are some summer-related risks to be aware of—and how to keep your furry family members safe.

Hot Pavement and Paw Pad Burns

Pavement and pathways can reach dangerously high temperatures quickly during the summer, leading to painful paw pad burns. A simple test: if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. To avoid injury, walk your dog on grass or shaded trails, especially during the cooler parts of the day.

Heat Stroke

Veterinary claims for heat-related illnesses increase by nearly 300% in the summer, according to Trupanion, a pet insurance provider. Dogs don’t sweat like humans—they can only cool down by panting and sweating through their paw pads, which puts them at high risk for overheating.

High-risk breeds include brachycephalics (like bulldogs, pugs, and boxers), which have more difficulty breathing in hot weather.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Excessive panting
• Lethargy
• Bright red gums
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Disorientation
• Seizures

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid activity during the hottest parts of the day, especially when it’s humid. A heat stroke can come on quickly.
• Ensure fresh water is always available
• Never leave pets in a parked car

Emergency Treatment:

If heat stroke is suspected, immediately cool your pet with cool water, apply a fan, and seek veterinary care. Normal dog body temperatures are up to 102°F. Anything over 107°F can lead to multi-organ failure.

Fireworks and Noise Anxiety

Many pets have a fear of loud noises such as thunderstorms or fireworks. For thunderstorms, desensitization and counterconditioning over time can help with noise phobias. However, many pets need short-term medication support during holidays like the Fourth of July.

Helpful tips:

• Contact your veterinarian several days in advance to discuss anti-anxiety medications like Sileo, Trazodone, or Gabapentin
• These should be administered before the noise and the onset of anxiety to be most effective
• For commonly present fears such as thunderstorms, increase comfort by exposing to low volumes over time—reinforcing calm behavior with treats. Try not to reward attention seeking behavior during the event itself, as this can reinforce anxiety- related behaviors.

Water Threats and Leptospirosis

Summer brings increased exposure to wildlife and water sources, both of which raise the risk of Leptospirosis—a bacterial disease often caused by exposure to contaminated waters. 

The Lepto vaccine is now considered a core vaccine for dogs in the U.S. due to its prevalence and severity. Talk to your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up to date on this crucial protection.

📽️ Watch this brief educational video on Leptospirosis

📚 Learn more from AAHA’s vaccine guidelines

Final Tip: A little prevention goes a long way in protecting your pet’s health and happiness this summer. Schedule a seasonal wellness check to discuss vaccines, medications, and personalized advice with your veterinarian.

Stay cool, stay safe—and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!