🐾 As a dog walker and someone who works closely with pets every day, I know just how tough the summer heat can be—especially when the power goes out. Our dogs (and other furry friends) rely on us to help them stay safe, cool, and comfortable. With temperatures rising and heat waves becoming more common, I wanted to share a few tips I use myself to keep pets cool—whether I’m out on a walk with them or caring for them at home during a power outage.
1. Keep Pets Indoors & Limit Activity
When the temps are soaring, staying inside is often the safest bet. I adjust my walking schedule based on the forecast, and I always monitor the pavement temperature before heading out.
If you’re home during an outage:
- Keep your pets in the coolest room possible.
- Shut the blinds and use battery-powered fans if you have them.
- Let in a breeze during the early morning or evening hours.
2. Fresh, Cool Water is a Must
Hydration is key. At home, keep water bowls filled with fresh, cool (not ice-cold) water. I also like to toss in a few ice cubes or even frozen broth cubes when I’m caring for dogs in hot weather—it keeps them interested in drinking. There are even bowls like the Coldest Dog Bowl designed to keep your pups water colder longer.
3. Help Them Chill Out (Literally!)
If you’ve got tile or hardwood floors, that’s usually where your pup will head to cool down. You can also:
- Place a damp towel or cooling mat in their favorite spot.
- Let them rest on a wet towel or pop a chilled water bottle (wrapped in a towel) into their bed.
- Use cooling bandanas or vests if you have them—some dogs love them!
4. Use Light Mist or Damp Towels
If your dog seems too warm, try gently misting them with water or wiping them down with a cool, damp cloth. Focus on areas like the paws, belly, and ears—these help release body heat more quickly.
5. No Car Rides Without AC
Please never leave your dog in a parked car—even for a minute. On a 90° day, the inside of a car can hit over 120° in just 10 minutes. If you’re running errands during an outage or heatwave, it’s safest to leave pets at home in a cool spot.
6. Know the Warning Signs of Overheating
As a pet care provider, I watch for these signs on every hot walk or visit:
- Heavy panting
- Lethargy or wobbling
- Bright red gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Collapse
If you ever see these symptoms, act fast: move your dog to shade, offer water, wet their paws/belly, and call your vet ASAP.
7. Build a Pet-Friendly Emergency Kit
Power outages can last longer than we expect. A few things I recommend having ready for your pets:
- Bottled water
- Extra kibble or canned food
- Portable, battery-powered fan
- Extra leashes, towels, and a misting bottle
- Any medications and vet info
I hope these tips help you feel more confident keeping your pets safe during heatwaves and unexpected power outages. As someone who cares for pets daily, I know how much peace of mind it brings to feel prepared—and you’re not alone on this journey!
👉 Join our free Facebook group, Raising a Happy Healthy Puppy
🐾 Come be part of the pack—you and your pup are always welcome!
My free Facebook group for busy dog moms who want to confidently nourish their pups without second-guessing every bite. Inside, you’ll find simple nutrition tips, label-reading help, feeding strategies, and real support to raise a dog you truly love living with—starting at mealtime and lasting a lifetime.
💛Because every pup deserves a full bowl and a full heart.
