Record heat brings extra risks for cats, dogs and other pets

When temperatures soar, it’s not just people who need to beat the heat — pets can face serious dangers from hot pavement, dehydration and even sunburn.

Best Friends Animal Society is offering pet-safety tips as record-breaking temperatures settle in across much of the United States.

One of the biggest hazards can be right under a pet’s feet. Sidewalks and asphalt can become dangerously hot in direct sunlight and burn a dog or cat’s paw pads.

Michelle Logan, Executive Director of the Best Friends Pets Resource Center in Bentonville, Arkansas, recommends a simple test: If you can’t comfortably hold your hand on the pavement for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

“Sidewalks and asphalt can really heat up quickly,” Logan says. “Pets can burn their foot pads. We recommend taking walks during the cooler parts of the day, taking pets to shady or grassy areas, or putting protective booties on them to keep their paws safe.”

When the heat makes outdoor activity unsafe, Logan says indoor enrichment can help pets stay active and mentally stimulated. Food-dispensing toys, puzzle feeders and snuffle mats can keep dogs engaged while allowing them to burn energy safely indoors.

Hydration is also critical.

Dogs and cats can become dehydrated quickly in hot weather, particularly during outdoor activities. Pet owners should carry fresh water and a collapsible bowl when traveling with their animals.

Pets should remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day whenever possible and should always have access to shade when outside.

For pets enjoying a lake or swimming pool, Logan recommends taking additional precautions.

“If pets are new to the water, we would recommend putting a life vest on them,” she says. “Also be sure to prevent them from drinking pool water because it contains several chemicals.”

Pets can also get sunburned, especially those with light-colored fur or exposed skin. Pet-safe sunscreen and lightweight, UV-protective clothing can provide additional protection during sunny days outdoors.

And perhaps the most important rule:

Never leave a pet unattended in a parked car — even for a few minutes.

“Even in 70-degree weather, the temperature inside a car can rise to 89 degrees in just 10 minutes,” Logan says.