As temperatures begin to rise across Florida, many pet owners are eager to spend more time outdoors with their furry companions. While late spring and early summer bring plenty of opportunities for sunshine and activity, they also mark the start of increased risk for heat-related injuries. At Animal Emergency Hospital Volusia, Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand, and Animal Emergency Hospital Palm Coast, we begin to see a seasonal uptick in emergencies this time of year – many of which can be prevented with the right precautions.
Here’s what every pet owner should know about protecting their furry family members from burned paws, heatstroke, and seasonal water hazards.
Burned Paws: The Hidden Danger Beneath Their Feet
Hot pavement is one of the most common and avoidable causes of injury during Florida summers. Asphalt, concrete, and even beach sand can reach temperatures high enough to burn your pet’s paw pads in seconds.
A simple rule of thumb: if you can’t comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 5–7 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet to walk on.
Signs of burned paws include:
- Limping or refusing to walk
- Darkened, blistered, or peeling paw pads
- Excessive licking or chewing at the feet
Prevention tips:
- Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening
- Stick to grassy or shaded areas whenever possible
- Consider protective booties for longer outings
Heatstroke: A Life-Threatening Emergency
Heatstroke can develop quickly and escalate dangerously, especially in Florida’s humidity. Unlike humans, pets can’t efficiently cool themselves, making them far more vulnerable to overheating.
High-risk pets include:
- Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs
- Senior pets or those with underlying health conditions
- Overweight animals
Warning signs of heatstroke:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or collapse
- Bright red gums or tongue
If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler area immediately, offer small amounts of water, and seek emergency veterinary care right away. Heatstroke is not something to “wait and see.”
Prevention tips:
- Never leave your pet in a parked car (even for a minute!)
- Provide constant access to fresh water and shade
- Limit exercise during peak heat hours
Swimming Hazards: Not All Pets Are Natural Swimmers
Water activities can be a great way to cool down, but they come with their own risks. Not all pets instinctively know how to swim, and even strong swimmers can tire quickly.
Common swimming dangers include:
- Exhaustion and drowning
- Ingestion of saltwater or pool chemicals
- Hidden currents in natural bodies of water
- Slippery pool edges that make it difficult to exit
Safety tips for water play:
- Always supervise your pet around water
- Use a pet life vest, especially for inexperienced swimmers
- Rinse your pet off after swimming to remove salt or chlorine
- Make sure your pet knows how to safely exit a pool
Keeping Summer Safe and Enjoyable
With a little planning and awareness, you can still enjoy everything summer has to offer, while keeping your pet safe and comfortable. Staying mindful of heat, surfaces, and water conditions can make all the difference.
If you ever have concerns about your pet’s health, don’t hesitate to reach out or visit one of our emergency hospitals. Your pet’s safety is always worth it.
We’re Here When You Need Us Most
If your pet shows any signs of heat-related distress, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Conditions like heatstroke and severe burns can worsen rapidly without professional care.
If you’re in or near Volusia or Flagler County, including Ormond Beach, DeLand, and Palm Coast, our emergency team is here 24/7 to provide guidance, support, and life-saving care when it matters most. When minutes matter, having a trusted local emergency veterinary hospital nearby can make all the difference. [Pay it forward by sending this to a friend] 😊
Warmest wishes,
Dr. Diane Johnson
Founder, Medical Director