The Florida summer heat can jeopardize your pet’s health and comfort and put them at risk for heat-related illnesses. However, some pet owners are unfamiliar with heat dangers or misinformed about how pets handle the heat. The Chiefland Animal Hospital team wants to ensure pet owners can separate myths from facts about heat’s effect on their furry pals. Here, we debunk common myths and present facts to help you keep your pet safe and healthy.

Myth 1: Pets handle heat better than humans.

Fact: Some people believe that animals can tolerate climate extremes better than people, which may be true of wild, native creatures. However, because pets cannot sweat to cool down and are covered in variably thick fur, they are more vulnerable to heatstroke than humans. Their panting dissipates some heat but is ineffective in high temperatures and humidity.

Myth 2: Only dogs with thick coats are at risk for heat-related illness.

Fact: Heat affects all pets, not only those with thick fur. Other factors that can make pets more heat-sensitive include:

  • Breed — Short-nosed (i.e., brachycephalic) pets, such as bulldogs or pugs, struggle to use panting effectively.
  • Age — Young puppies, kittens, and seniors may have difficulty regulating body temperature.
  • Health — Chronic diseases or hormonal conditions may alter temperature sensitivity.

Myth 3: If you’re comfortable, so is your pet.

Fact: What feels comfortable to you may still be dangerously hot for your pet. Pets’ bodies can overheat quickly, especially when humidity is high. If you’re too hot, your pet is in danger, and if you’re comfortable, your pet is likely less so.

Myth 4: Shaving your pet is the best way to help them stay cool.

Fact: Shaving your pet can increase their sunburn risk and, in some cases, impair the coat’s ability to regulate temperature, increasing the susceptibility to heatstroke. Regular grooming and brushing can help remove loose fur, dirt, and mats, improving air circulation and cooling. Consult a professional groomer to determine the best method for managing your pet’s coat in the summer.

Myth 5: Pets can handle the heat if you provide cold water.

Fact: Hydration is crucial, but not enough to prevent heatstroke. Pets also need access to shade, frequent rest breaks, and limited exposure to hot environments. Avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, supervising pets closely, and never leaving them alone in parked cars are also critical to protecting pets from overheating.

Myth 6: Evening walks are the safest option for pets.

Fact: Walks in the evening are considerably safer than those during peak sun and heat hours, but remember—pavement and sand retain heat and may burn your pet’s paws well into the evening. Always check the ground with your hand before heading out, and consider using breathable, protective booties, as needed. Alternatively, consider early morning walks when the pavement has cooled overnight.

Myth 7: A fan can sufficiently cool pets.

Fact: Fans do not cool pets as effectively as humans, because pets do not sweat. While fans can help move air around and improve general ventilation, they do not lower a pet’s temperature. Adding water to the equation can increase a fan’s efficacy, but air-conditioning is far more effective. Allow pets to use a kiddie pool or a cooling vest, and then place them near the fan.

Myth 8: Pets self-regulate and will take steps to cool themselves.

Fact: Many cats can self-regulate, but dogs are notorious for overdoing it and often do not realize they are overheating until it’s too late. Pet owners must proactively manage their furry pal’s environment and activity levels, ensuring they take frequent breaks indoors and drink enough water to prevent overheating.

Understanding these pet heat safety facts can help ensure your furry pal stays safe and comfortable despite rising temperatures and humidity. Contact our Chiefland Animal Hospital team if you have concerns about your pet’s heat tolerance, to schedule a routine visit, or with questions about effective heat-mitigating strategies for pets.