We love soaking up the sunshine with our furry friends, but as Austin temperatures rise, summer walks require extra care. At See Jane Walk, we’re committed to keeping your pets not only happy (but safe!) during the warmer months.
While we never take dogs into bodies of water, we do recommend pet parents stay informed about algae levels in Austin lakes, which can be harmful to pets even from splashing or sniffing near the shore.
One of our go-to summer safety tricks? Do the pavement test: press the back of your hand to the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Top Tips for Hot Weather Pet Safety
1. Never leave pets in a parked car
Even on a mild day, temperatures inside a car can exceed 120°F in minutes even with windows cracked. The only exception: vehicles with a built-in climate control mode for pets.
2. Keep them hydrated
We always carry water with us on walks. At home, make sure pets have access to fresh, cool water at all times.
3. Protect their paws
Stick to grassy or shaded areas as much as possible to avoid burns from hot sidewalks or asphalt.
4. Don’t overdo exercise
Pets can easily overexert themselves in the heat. We monitor energy levels closely, take shaded breaks often, and never push dogs beyond their limits.
5. Watch older pets and short-nosed breeds
Senior pets and flat-faced breeds like pugs and bulldogs are especially vulnerable to heatstroke. They may need shorter, slower walks or even indoor playtime on especially hot days.
6. Use pet-safe sunscreen
Yes, dogs can get sunburned too! Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas like the tips of ears, noses, and bellies. (Let us know if you’d like us to apply it during a walk, we’re happy to help!)
Let’s keep tails wagging all summer long!
If you have any concerns about your pet’s tolerance for heat or need a modified walk schedule, we’re just a message away.
Jane is the owner/operator of See Jane Walk, a 5-star pet business in Austin, TX. Jane left corporate life in 2019 to follow her passion – dogs. She’s Tulane graduate with a B.A. in Communications. View Jane’s Full Bio.