Summer in Lake Tahoe means sunny hikes, paddleboard days, and plenty of outdoor fun with our furry friends. But with rising temperatures comes real risk for our pets. Dogs and cats are vulnerable to overheating, paw pad burns, and heatstroke. This blog covers what to watch for, how to prepare, and the best products to help keep your pets safe and cool all season long.
✨ Quick Tips to Beat the Heat
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Walk early or late: Avoid walking during midday heat.
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Test the pavement: Place your hand or bare foot on pavement for 7 seconds. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them.
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Keep them hydrated: Always have fresh water available.
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Offer shade and airflow: Especially important on hikes or in backyards.
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Watch humidity: Dogs rely on panting to cool off; high humidity makes this less effective.
Travel Prep: Whether Short Trip or Long Haul
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Car safety: Never leave pets in parked vehicles. Use sunshades, portable fans, and cooling mats during travel.
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Plan for breaks: Give dogs potty and water breaks every 2 hours.
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Frozen treats: Keep travel coolers stocked with frozen yogurt treats or ice cube-based snacks.
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Pack cooling gear: Include collapsible water bowls, cooling vests, and paw protection.
Hot Surface Awareness
| Air Temperature | Asphalt Temp | Concrete Temp | Sand Temp |
|---|---|---|---|
| 77°F | 125°F | 105°F | 115°F |
| 86°F | 135°F | 115°F | 125°F |
| 95°F | 145°F+ | 125°F+ | 140°F+ |
Paw pad burns can occur in less than 60 seconds at surface temps over 125°F.
Inside a Car: Danger Timeline
| Outside Temp | Time to Reach 100°F Inside Car | Deadly After |
| 70°F | ~20 minutes | 30-40 minutes |
| 80°F | ~10 minutes | 20-30 minutes |
| 90°F | ~5-8 minutes | 10-15 minutes |
Even with windows cracked, temps can soar quickly. Cracking windows does not provide sufficient cooling.
Signs of Overheating in Dogs:
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Heavy panting or rapid breathing
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Excessive drooling
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Red or pale gums
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Weakness or uncoordinated movement
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Collapse or unconsciousness
First Aid:
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Move to shade or A/C
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Offer water
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Wet paws, ears, and belly with cool (not cold) water
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Use a fan if available
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Seek veterinary care immediately
If You See a Dog in a Hot Car: What to Do
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Assess the situation: Is the dog showing distress?
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Record details: Time, location, car make/model, license plate
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Try to locate the owner: Ask nearby businesses or make an announcement
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Call authorities: Contact animal control or local police
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Understand local laws: In California, it is legal to break a window to rescue an animal in distress, only after calling authorities first and staying with the animal until they arrive.
Products to Keep Pets Cool (Available In-Store or at www.dogdogcat.com)
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Cooling Vests & Bandanas: Lightweight, water-activated gear to regulate body temp.
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Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots: Protect paws from hot surfaces and sharp rocks.
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West Paw Toppl or Qwizl Toys: Perfect for frozen treats and enrichment.
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Hydroplane Floating Toy: Great for water-based play, gentle on teeth.
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Portable Water Bottles & Bowls: Hydration on the go.
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Car Seat Sun Shades & Crate Fans: Improve airflow while traveling.
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Frozen Treats: Browse our cooler section for healthy, pet-safe options.
Wrap-Up: Stay Cool & Play Smart
Summer should be a time of joy and exploration. By preparing with the right gear and information, you can help your dog or cat enjoy every adventure safely. From gear to frozen goodies, Dog.Dog.Cat. is here to help make your summer pet-friendly and worry-free.
Visit us in South Lake Tahoe or shop online at www.dogdogcat.com to stay cool all summer long!