Summer in Columbus is no joke. With temperatures regularly climbing into the 90s and heat indexes that can push well past 100°F the season demands extra attention when it comes to your pet’s health and safety. Dogs and cats can’t sweat the way we do, which means they’re far more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heat stroke than most people realize. Here’s what every pet owner in the Chattahoochee Valley needs to know before the hottest months arrive.

Warning Signs

Recognize the Signs of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. By the time your pet is showing serious symptoms, every minute counts. Know the warning signs:

Early Heat Exhaustion

• Excessive, heavy panting
• Drooling more than usual
• Restlessness or agitation
• Mild weakness or fatigue

Progressing to heat stroke:

• Bright red or pale gums
• Thick, sticky saliva
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Stumbling or loss of coordination
• Glazed eyes or confusion
• Collapse or loss of consciousness

If you see any of the more serious signs, move your pet to a cool, shaded area immediately, apply cool (not ice cold) water to their paw pads, armpits, and groin, and get to a veterinarian right away.

NEVER Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car

This cannot be overstated. On a 90°F day, the interior of a parked car can reach 110–130°F within minutes, even with the windows cracked. What feels like a quick errand can become a tragedy. Leave your pet at home if you’re running errands, or choose pet-friendly destinations where they can come inside with you.

Seek the Shade

Adjust Walk Times and Limit Outdoor Activity​

Midday in Columbus summer is not the time for a long walk. Plan outdoor activity for the early morning (before 9 a.m.) or evening (after 7 p.m.), when pavement and air temperatures are significantly lower.

The Pavement Test: Press the back of your hand to the sidewalk or asphalt for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paw pads. Burned paws are painful and surprisingly common in summer. Consider booties or stick to grassy areas.

Tips for the Water Bowl

Keep Them Hydrated​

Pets need constant access to fresh, cool water both indoors and out. A few tips:

Bring a collapsible water bowl and a bottle of water on any outing.

Add ice cubes to your pet's water bowl on hot days.

Place multiple water stations around your home, especially if you have a multi-pet household.

Watch for decreased drinking, which can be an early sign of illness.

Don't let your dog drink too quickly after intense exercise. This can cause them to vomit or have Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, a dangerous condition that can cause the stomach to twist on itself.

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Create a Cool Environment at Home

Keep your pet indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Make sure your air conditioning is functioning before summer peaks.

Provide cooling mats, neck cooling wraps, or a damp towel for pets to lie on.

For pets that spend time outdoors, ensure there is constant access to shade and fresh water. Direct sun with no escape is dangerous even for short periods.

Be Extra Careful with High-Risk Pets

Some animals are at greater risk in the heat and need even closer monitoring:

• Brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats, Boston terriers) — their shortened airways make it much harder to cool themselves through panting.
• Senior pets and puppies/kittens — both extremes of age are less efficient at regulating body temperature.
• Overweight pets — extra body mass makes cooling harder.
• Pets with chronic health conditions — heart disease, respiratory issues, and certain medications can increase heat sensitivity.

If your pet falls into any of these categories, talk to your vet about a personalized summer safety plan.

Swimming and Wading

Don't Forget About Water Safety

Lakes, rivers, and pools are a big part of summer fun around Columbus and the Chattahoochee, but water comes with its own risks.

Never leave a pet unsupervised near water. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and exhaustion sets in fast.

Rinse your pet off after swimming to remove bacteria, algae, or chemicals.

Try to resist letting your dog drink standing water from unknown sources that may be contaminated with parasites like Giardia.

Watch for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms in standing water. Exposure can be fatal to dogs.

Consider a life vest for smaller dogs or breeds that aren't built for swimming.

Be on the Look Out

Watch for Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes

Summer heat also means peak parasite season. Fleas and ticks thrive in our Georgia climate, and mosquitoes in our area carry heartworm larvae that can lead to heartworm disease, a condition that is both deadly and preventable. Make sure your pets are up to date on:

• Flea and tick prevention
• Heartworm prevention (year-round, but especially critical in summer)
• Their annual wellness exam, so your vet can catch any issues early

We are here for you.

When In Doubt Call Us

If you’re ever unsure whether your pet is overheating or showing signs of illness, don’t wait it out. Heat stroke can go from serious to fatal very quickly in animals. Give Uptown Veterinary Clinic a call. We’re here to help keep your furry family members safe all summer long.