| |

Heat Stress in Pets: Prevention, Signs & Quick Action

It’s Not Just Hot—It’s Dangerous

July isn’t just a busy month for pet businesses—it’s one of the riskiest times of year for pet heat stress and dehydration. Dogs and cats can’t sweat like humans, and what feels like a warm day to us can be life-threatening for them.

Whether you’re a pet sitter, dog walker, or trainer, your clients are counting on you to keep their pets safe. This blog post not only gives you safety tips to share—it also shows you how to turn this summer risk into a trust-building moment.


What Is Heat Stress in Pets?

Heat stress happens when a pet’s body temperature rises faster than it can cool down. Unlike humans, pets don’t sweat all over their bodies—they mostly regulate heat through panting and limited sweat glands on their paws. That makes them extremely vulnerable in hot, humid weather.


Common causes of heat stress:

  • Outdoor play or walks during midday heat
  • Poor ventilation in pet boarding areas or cars
  • Lack of access to clean drinking water
  • Hot pavement that burns paw pads and raises body temp


Early Signs of Heat Stress to Watch For

Mild to moderate signs:

  • Excessive panting or drooling
  • Red or pale gums
  • Lethargy or refusal to move
  • Vomiting or diarrhea


Severe signs (medical emergency):

  • Staggering or confusion
  • Collapse
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness


Quick Action Steps If You Suspect Heat Stress

If you’re working with a pet who shows signs of overheating, don’t wait—act fast.

  • Get the pet to a shaded or air-conditioned area immediately.
  • Offer cool (not ice-cold) water in small amounts.
  • Use cool damp towels on paws, belly, and armpits.
  • Call the vet right away.


Marketing Angle: How to Use This Info to Build Client Trust

Here’s where most pet pros miss the mark: they know this info—but don’t share it.

Ways to turn this into a marketing spotlight:

  • Send a short version of this post in your July client newsletter
  • Create a safety checklist to share on social media
  • Post a photo of a pet in the shade with a caption about heat safety
  • Add a “Hot Weather Policy” to your service page
  • Mention your summer safety protocols in meet-and-greets


Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Paws!

Pavement can reach over 125°F on sunny summer days—even when the air temp is in the 80s. Do the 7-second rule: if you can’t hold the back of your hand to the pavement for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.


Final Bark

Summer safety isn’t optional—it’s an opportunity. The pet pros who show leadership during risky seasons aren’t just “nice”—they’re the ones who clients remember and refer.

If you haven’t talked to your clients about heat safety, now’s the time. Because if you don’t, someone else will.

Similar Posts