Keeping your dogs cool during hot summer days

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Summer is in full swing and temperatures are rapidly rising. While people are looking to cool off themselves, they're also looking for ways to cool off their pets. 

“Normal dog body temperature is around 100, 101, 102,” says Stefany McBride, Huntsville Animal Services Animal Care Supervisor, “Once it gets over 102, can cause severe damage to the animal.”

McBride also says if a dog overheats, it can cause serious medical injury. You also need to keep your pets cool when walking them, especially their paws. 

“Every now and then get his paws wet, because that's where he sweat from. So just get the paws wet with some cool water,” says Huntsville Resident Tomas Gorrio. “Maybe stay in a shaded area or walking in the grass. like I said, or, you know, maybe get some little feet covers to go on their feet,” McBride says. 

PETA reported more than 160 heat-related deaths to pet in 2023 and more than 850 rescues. 

“They can get way overheated in their body temperature. hard to bring back down,” says McBride.

One of the big trends from the PETA report shows many animals being left in turned off cars for long periods of time. McBride says “Even if you crack the windows, there's you know, you might be running in for five minutes, you think or not, but with this extreme temperature, the inside, the cars can probably get up to 150 degrees.” 

There's also some signs to look out for if your dog is starting to over heat. McBride says dogs will start to heavily pant.