Keeping Dogs In A Cool Environment During Summer Is Vital For Their Health: Veterinary Expert

May27,2026 | Jagrati Lahar Bureau | Chandigarh

Summer is an ideal season for people and their pet dogs to spend time outdoors, exercise, and enjoy recreational activities; however, rising environmental temperatures can also pose serious health risks to dogs, making it essential to protect them from excessive heat, said Dr. Raj Sukhbir Singh, Professor, Department of Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana. He informed that heat stroke and dehydration are among the most common summer-related health problems in dogs and that any dog exercising on a hot and humid day can become overheated, even if water is available. He explained that the normal body temperature of dogs ranges between 100.5°F and 102.5°F and that dogs regulate body temperature mainly through panting and heat dissipation from blood vessels in the skin. If the body temperature rises to 105–106°F, dogs are at high risk of developing heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which may cause irreversible organ damage and can even prove fatal if not treated promptly. He advised pet owners to take dogs for walks during cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and emphasized that black-coloured and long-haired dogs are more susceptible to heat stress.

Dr. Singh warned that leaving dogs unattended inside parked vehicles can be extremely dangerous, as temperatures inside cars can rise rapidly within minutes, even with partially open windows. He cautioned pet owners against walking dogs on excessively hot surfaces, as these may burn the foot pads. Dr. Singh advised keeping dogs in shaded areas with constant access to fresh cool water, avoiding vigorous exercise during hot weather, and providing cooling options such as kiddie pools, tubs, or sprinklers. He also highlighted the increased risk of external parasites like ticks and fleas during summer and advised pet owners to consult veterinarians for preventive care. Additionally, clipping the hair coat of long-haired dogs may help reduce heat stress.

Dr. Singh further emphasized that once a dog’s body temperature starts rising, irrespective of the cause, it should be considered a life-threatening emergency. In such situations, pet owners should immediately contact an emergency veterinarian and begin cooling the dog using cool water, especially around the groin, armpits, and neck, while avoiding the use of ice-cold water or ice, which may delay heat loss by causing blood vessel constriction. He also recommended using fans or car air vents to improve cooling and offering small quantities of cool drinking water while transporting the dog for immediate veterinary care.