(SACRAMENTO, CA.) — Summer has officially arrived in Sacramento, bringing longer days, backyard barbecues, poolside gatherings, and outdoor adventures. But alongside the season’s pleasures comes a serious set of risks for pets.
(A dog enjoys fresh water during a hot summer day in Sacramento County as temperatures rise, highlighting the importance of keeping pets cool, hydrated, and protected from heat-related risks. Image credit: Sacramento County government.)
Sacramento County government is reminding all pet owners that dogs and cats are far more vulnerable to heat than many owners realize. Every year, animal shelters and veterinary clinics treat pets suffering from heat exhaustion, burned paw pads, dehydration, and heat stroke—many of which are entirely preventable with simple precautions.
As temperatures continue to climb, here are key ways to help keep pets safe, comfortable, and healthy throughout the summer months.
Never Leave Pets in a Parked Vehicle
Even on days that feel relatively mild, the temperature inside a parked car can become life-threatening within minutes. Cracking windows provides little relief, and conditions can quickly escalate to dangerous levels.
If you are running errands, it is safest to leave pets at home in a cool, ventilated environment.
Walk Early or Walk Late
Plan walks during the early morning or later evening hours when pavement and air temperatures are cooler. Midday heat can quickly lead to overheating and burned paw pads.
A simple safety check can help: place the back of your hand on pavement for seven seconds. If it is too hot for your skin, it is too hot for your pet’s paws.
Make Water Available at All Times
Hydration is essential during hot weather. Pets should always have access to fresh, clean water, both indoors and outdoors.
When traveling, hiking, or walking, bring a portable water bowl to help prevent dehydration and overheating.
Provide Shade and Cool Resting Areas
If pets are spending time outdoors, they must have consistent access to shade and water. Trees, awnings, and covered areas can help reduce heat exposure.
Indoors, fans, air conditioning, cooling mats, and damp towels can provide additional relief during peak temperatures.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Warning signs include excessive panting, heavy drooling, vomiting, weakness, lethargy, stumbling, or collapse.
If heatstroke is suspected, move the pet immediately to a cool area and seek veterinary care right away.
Be Careful Around Water
Pools, lakes, and rivers can offer relief from the heat but also present safety risks. Pets should always be supervised near water.
Consider using a pet life jacket, especially for inexperienced swimmers, and never assume a pet can safely navigate water without assistance.
Protect Pets From Sunburn
Pets with light-colored fur, thin coats, or exposed skin—especially around the nose and ears—can suffer sunburn.
Veterinarians can recommend pet-safe sunscreen products designed specifically for animals.
Check on Outdoor Pets
During extreme heat, bringing pets indoors is often the safest option. If that is not possible, ensure outdoor animals have continuous shade, ventilation, and ample water throughout the day.
Looking to Add a New Family Member This Summer?
Summer is also a meaningful time to consider adoption. Sacramento County’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter and Sacramento City’s Front Street Animal Shelter both have dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens waiting for loving homes.
Bradshaw Animal Shelter offers pet licensing services, lost and found support, and adoption opportunities for a wide range of animals. The shelter is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., and Wednesdays from noon to 6 p.m.
For pet licensing, lost and found services, adoptable animals, and additional resources, visit BradshawShelter.net.
As Sacramento’s primary city-run animal shelter, Front Street provides adoption services for dogs, cats, and other animals, along with lost-and-found support, pet licensing, and community programs focused on increasing pet reunification and adoption outcomes.
Front Street Animal Shelter is located at 2127 Front Street, Sacramento, CA 95818, near the Broadway corridor. Open seven days a week, noon to 5 p.m. For pet licensing, lost and found services, adoptable animals, and additional resources, visit https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/community-development/animal-care.
Residents are encouraged to check both shelters regularly, as animal availability changes daily and new pets arrive frequently.
If you’d like to add or correct anything in this report, feel free to reach out to me or leave a comment below. Submit Sacramento County tips and story ideas to Sarah Denos at sarahkdenos@gmail.com.
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