Summer in Reno, Nevada brings plenty of sunshine and outdoor fun, but it also introduces a serious threat to our pets: heat-related emergencies. At Peak Pet Urgent Care, we see firsthand how quickly pets can go from playful to perilously overheated. Heatstroke, dehydration, and burned paw pads are common—and preventable—summer dangers. By staying informed and making smart seasonal choices, you can ensure your pet stays safe, cool, and happy all summer long.

Why Pets Struggle with Summer Heat More Than We Do

Unlike humans, pets can’t simply shed a few layers or grab an ice-cold drink. They rely primarily on panting to regulate their body temperature, and their limited sweat glands—mostly in their paw pads—aren’t enough to beat the intense Nevada heat.

Their fur coats, while protective in winter, can trap heat and humidity. Double-coated breeds are especially vulnerable unless properly groomed. Add in their dependence on humans to access water, shade, and rest, and you can see why pet owners must act as advocates during heatwaves.

Tips for Heatstroke Prevention:

  • Never leave pets in a parked car, even with windows cracked
  • Don’t assume a shady spot is safe all day (shade moves!)
  • Always provide clean, cool water
  • Avoid tying pets outside without supervision
  • Groom pets regularly to remove mats and excess undercoat

Know Who’s Most at Risk

Some pets are naturally more prone to heat stress than others. If your pet falls into one of these categories, exercise extra caution:

  • Flat-faced breeds (like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers) struggle to breathe efficiently in heat. Read more on Brachycephalic breeds – Purina Pro Club
  • Overweight pets have a harder time regulating internal temperatures.
  • Seniors or pets with chronic health issues (e.g., heart disease, asthma, or collapsing trachea) are at greater risk.
  • Dark-colored or thick-coated animals absorb and retain more heat.

Transitioning Safely into Summer Activity

Even active pets need a ramp-up period after winter. Sudden increases in exercise can lead to exhaustion, heatstroke, or injuries.

Here’s how to ease into warmer months:

  • Start with short walks during cooler times (early morning or evening)
  • Watch for pavement temps—hot surfaces can burn sensitive paw pads
  • Condition your pet gradually if they gained winter weight
  • Have a groomer remove dead undercoat and clean up mats that trap heat

Walking On Sunshine: Protecting Pet Paws – AAHA

Recognizing Heatstroke Before It’s Too Late

Time is of the essence when it comes to treating heatstroke. Know the early signs and act fast:

Early Signs

  • Heavy panting and drooling
  • Restlessness or excessive seeking of shade
  • Bright red gums
  • Rapid heart rate

Advanced Symptoms

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Weakness, collapse
  • Pale or grayish gums
  • Seizures or confusion

Immediate Response

  • Move your pet to a cool, shaded area
  • Offer small sips of cool (not ice-cold) water
  • Apply damp towels to belly, paws, and underarms
  • Use fans or air conditioning to speed cooling
  • Head to a veterinary clinic immediately

Too Hot to Handle: Heatstroke in Pets – AAHA

What Happens After a Heat Emergency

Even if your pet seems to recover after overheating, internal damage may be underway. The hours and days following a heat episode are critical.

Watch for

  • Kidney failure: low urine output, lethargy
  • Liver damage: jaundice, abnormal bleeding
  • Gastrointestinal trauma: vomiting, black stools
  • Neurological symptoms: seizures, personality changes
  • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): bruising, bleeding, collapse

Monitor your pet closely for 24–72 hours and follow your vet’s care instructions carefully.

Heat Hazards You Might Miss

Sunburn

Pets can get sunburned too—especially those with light-colored fur or exposed skin. Sensitive areas like ears, noses, and bellies are particularly vulnerable.

Pets and Sunscreen Myths – ASPCA
Do Dogs Need Sunscreen? – NBC News

Burned Paw Pads

Hot pavement, sand, or decking can cause painful blisters. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.

Ocular Sun Damage

UV rays can worsen eye conditions like pannus in breeds such as German Shepherds. UV-blocking goggles (“Doggles”) are a helpful solution for vulnerable pets.

Beat the Heat: Creative Cooling Ideas

Make cooling off part of your pet’s summer fun:

  • Let dogs splash in kiddie pools or run through sprinklers
  • Try shaded water games or hose rinses after walks
  • Freeze broth, berries, or yogurt in ice cube trays or Kongs
  • Provide cooling bandanas, beds, or vests
  • Set up a shallow pool of ice water for lying down

Water Safety for Pets – AAHA
Keeping Cool: Summer Boredom Busters for Pets – AAHA

Smarter Outdoor Time

Plan ahead when heading outside:

Time of Day Safe or Risky?
Early Morning Safer
Midday (10–4) Risky (high UV, heat)
Evening Safer

 

Always

  • Bring more water than you think you’ll need
  • Take frequent breaks in shade
  • Mist your dog with water if needed
  • Watch for overexertion

Keeping Cool Indoors

Even indoor pets need heat protection:

  • Use fans or AC to circulate air
  • Let pets rest on tile or hardwood
  • Create shaded hideouts with towels or cool mats
  • Provide puzzle feeders or scent games to prevent boredom

Safety for Outdoor Cats

Cats who roam outdoors in summer are at risk for dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunburn.

  • Ensure fresh water and shaded areas are always available
  • Keep them indoors during peak heat hours when possible
  • Monitor for signs of stress like panting or excessive grooming

Cool Cats: Summer Tips for Outdoor Cats – AAHA

Other Warm-Weather Threats to Watch For

Foods to Avoid

  • Grapes, onions, garlic, and fatty meats can be toxic
  • Barbecue bones are a choking and splinter risk

Loud Noises & Fireworks

  • Secure your pet indoors during holidays or storms
  • Use calming tools like white noise or compression vests

Insects & Parasites

  • Mosquitos (heartworm), ticks (Lyme disease), fleas (itchy infestations)
  • Don’t let pets chase or eat bees and wasps

Snakes

Final Words of Caution

  • Never leave pets in a parked car
  • Always check the heat index and humidity, not just temperature
  • When in doubt, skip the trip and keep your pet cool at home
  • Make slow, safe transitions to increased summer activity

Let Peak Pet Urgent Care Help Keep Your Pet Cool and Safe

The summer months can be a joy for pets and their families—but only when safety is top of mind. If you notice any signs of heat exhaustion or have questions about preparing your pet for summer conditions, we’re here for you.

Schedule a seasonal wellness check with our compassionate veterinary team today, and let’s make sure your pet enjoys summer as safely as possible.