At Calistoga Pet Clinic in Calistoga, CA, we love seeing pets out and about with their families during the sunny season. Whether you’re hitting the trails, visiting the coast, or relaxing in the backyard, summer is a fantastic time to bond with your furry bestie. But with rising temperatures and seasonal risks, thoughtful summer pet care is essential to keep your pet comfortable, healthy, and safe.

From how to protect pets in hot weather to recognizing signs of heatstroke, our team of experienced veterinarians is here to help. Read on for trusted advice and summer safety tips for dogs and cats to keep your four-legged friend happy all season long.

Watch for the Heat: Understanding the Risks

Summertime in Calistoga can bring sweltering days, and pets are more sensitive to heat than many owners realize. Unlike humans, dogs and cats don’t sweat through their skin—instead, they rely on panting and limited sweat glands in their paws to release heat.

Common warm-weather dangers include:

• Heatstroke
  
• Burned paw pads on hot pavement
  
• Sunburn, especially for light-colored or short-haired pets
  
• Dehydration
  
• Bug bites and stings
  
• Overexertion during exercise
  

That’s why proper summer pet care is about prevention first and foremost.

Keeping Pets Cool During Summer Months

Here are a few practical ways to help your pet beat the heat:

Provide plenty of fresh, cool water
Keep multiple bowls around the house and in the yard. Consider adding ice cubes to bowls on especially hot days.

Create shaded outdoor areas
If your pup spends time outside, make sure there’s ample shade—trees, umbrellas, or tarps all work. Never rely on a doghouse for cooling; they can trap heat inside.

Avoid hot pavement
Test the sidewalk with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for paw pads. Walk early in the morning or after sunset, and stick to grass when possible.

Use fans or cooling mats indoors
Place a fan near your pet’s resting area or try cooling mats designed for dogs and cats.

Never leave your pet in a parked car
Even on a mild day, the inside of a car can become dangerously hot in minutes. Leaving the windows cracked doesn’t help. If you can’t take your pet with you, it’s safer to leave them at home.

Fun Fact: Dogs Have Their Own Cooling “System”

Did you know dogs cool themselves through panting and sweat glands in their paws? That’s why you may see damp paw prints on the floor during hot days—your canine buddy is doing his best to self-regulate temperature!

Adjust Summer Exercise Routines

We know your pup loves his walks, but during the summer, it’s best to:

• Walk during cooler hours (early morning or late evening)
  
• Keep walks shorter than usual
  
• Take frequent water breaks
  
• Watch for signs of overheating: excessive panting, drooling, confusion, or collapse
  

If you’re unsure whether your pet is handling the heat well, schedule a quick exam with one of our vets to be safe.

Grooming and Coat Care in Summer

It may be tempting to shave your pet in summer, but in many cases, it’s better to keep his coat intact. Fur actually helps regulate body temperature and protect against sunburn.

Instead:

• Brush regularly to remove excess undercoat
  
• Bathe gently to reduce oil and dirt buildup
  
• Trim long fur only when appropriate (ask our team for advice)
  
• Use pet-safe sunscreen on areas with little fur, like the nose and ears
  

For our feline patients, regular brushing helps keep Fluffy’s coat tangle-free and reduces heat retention.

Parasite Protection in Warm Weather

Summer also means more bugs. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are more active in the heat—and they pose health threats to pets.

Be sure your pet is protected with:

• Monthly flea and tick preventives
  
• Heartworm prevention, especially for dogs
  
• Vaccinations for Lyme disease and leptospirosis, based on your pet’s lifestyle
  

Talk to our team about what makes sense for your furry friend’s summer adventures.

Summer Safety for Outdoor Fun

Whether you’re headed to the beach, vineyard, or hiking trails around Calistoga, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Bring a collapsible water bowl and fresh water
  
• Keep your dog on a leash in unfamiliar areas
  
• Watch for foxtails, burrs, and thorns
  
• Don’t allow pets to drink from lakes or puddles
  
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure for light-skinned pets
  

And don’t forget to update your pet’s ID tags and microchip information—just in case your summer outing leads to unexpected wandering.

FAQ: Summer Pet Care

How do I know if my pet is overheating?

Watch for signs like rapid panting, glazed eyes, drooling, vomiting, or confusion. Heatstroke is a medical emergency—call us immediately.

Should I shave my dog in the summer?

Usually not. A properly groomed coat helps with temperature regulation. Talk to our veterinarians about safe grooming options.

Are there cooling products I can use?

Yes! Cooling vests, mats, and even frozen treats can help your pet stay comfortable. Always supervise your pet when using new items.

Can cats get too hot indoors?

Yes. Make sure your cat has access to cool areas, fans, and fresh water. She may also seek out tile floors or shaded corners to cool off.

Do all pets need parasite prevention in summer?

Yes—fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in the heat. Monthly preventives are essential for both indoor and outdoor pets.

Visit Our Calistoga, CA Vet Clinic for Summer Pet Health

Planning summer adventures with your furry friend in Calistoga, CA? You could search for a vet near me, or you could call the team at Calistoga Pet Clinic for expert guidance. We’ll help you navigate every summer concern—from hydration and grooming to travel tips and parasite protection.

With the right approach to summer pet care, you and your furry BFF can enjoy a safe, sunny season filled with tail wags, belly rubs, and beautiful memories. Call us today to schedule your summer wellness visit.

This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized care tailored to your pet’s specific needs and lifestyle.