Sun’s Out, Tongues Out: Summer Pet Hydration Tips

By Kendra S Gray, CPDT-KA

When the sun’s out, the tongues are out – and, if you’ve ever seen your dog panting on a hot summer day, you know just how much the heat can affect our furry friends. The summer season is packed with “paw-sibilities” for tail-wagging fun. But it also brings some challenges when it comes to keeping your pets cool, comfortable, and safe. One of the most important – and often overlooked – parts of summer pet care is hydration. July is designated Pet Hydration Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of keeping your pets hydrated to ensure their health and well-being.

So, if your pup loves sunny summer strolls as much as we do, or your kitty craves their time basking in the sun, then you’ll want to read on. We’ve got all the simple and effective summer pet hydration tips you need to keep your pets cool and hydrated this summer.

Why Hydration Matters More in the Summer:

Hydration is a key component in the overall health and well-being of dogs and cats, just as it is in humans. Composed of roughly 70% water, their bodies require proper hydration year-round to regulate body temperature, support organ function, and aid in digestion. While it can be a struggle for all of us to stay hydrated in the summer heat, dogs and cats are especially vulnerable. Dogs keep themselves cool mainly through panting and the release of heat through their paw pads. Cats control their body temperature with grooming, as well as their paw pads. In hot and humid conditions, these cooling methods are less effective, leading to quicker dehydration and increasing the risk of heatstroke and even death. (Check out our blog post How Hot is Too Hot to learn more about monitoring temperature conditions for the health of your pets.)

Whether your pet is out on a walk, playing in the yard, or just lounging in the sun, their body loses moisture much faster in the summer heat and humidity than during the cooler months. That’s why making sure they’re drinking enough water – before, during, and after all activity – is crucial to keeping them happy and healthy, especially in warmer weather.

Signs Your Pet May Be Dehydrated:

If you’re not sure if your cat or dog is getting enough water? Here are some common signs of dehydration in pets, according to the American Kennel Club.

• Loss of skin elasticity – Try the “scruff test,” gently hold some of your dog or cat’s skin near their shoulder blades, raise it, then let it go, watching to see how quickly it falls back into place. In a well-hydrated animal, the skin will spring right back. If your pet is dehydrated, the skin will take longer to return to its usual appearance.

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting (with or without diarrhea)

• Reduced energy levels and lethargy

• Excessive panting

• Sunken, dry-looking eyes

• Dry nose

• Dry, sticky gums – Test capillary refill time by gently pressing your finger against your pet’s gums, then remove your finger. In a well-hydrated animal, the area you pressed will appear white for a second, then return to its normal pink color almost immediately. The more dehydrated your pet is, the longer it will take for their gums to return to their usual appearance.

• Thick saliva

If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, move them to a cool place and offer fresh water immediately. If symptoms are severe, persist, or you have any questions or concerns, contact your vet or an emergency animal hospital for further instructions.

Easy Ways to Keep Your Pet Hydrated:

Hydration is essential, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple things you can do to help your pets stay cool and comfortable.

1. Bring Water on Every Walk and Adventure

Whether you’re headed out for a short potty break or an adventurous hike, always bring fresh water for your pup. Collapsible travel bowls and dog-friendly water bottles make it easy to offer a drink on the go.

2. Offer Water Before and After Outings

Start your walks off on the right paw by encouraging your dog to drink before you head out. Then make sure to offer water again as soon as you return. Some dogs need a little extra encouragement, especially when they’re excited to get out the door.

3. Add a Boost of Moisture to Meals

A little added hydration can go a long way. Mix some water, low-sodium broth, or wet food in with your dog or cat’s kibble for an extra boost of fluids on those especially steamy summer days.

4. Add Fun and Fluids with Frozen Treats

Store-bought pet-safe frozen goodies or DIY pupsicles (like ice cubes with treats inside or frozen fruit like seedless watermelon or blueberries) are great for cooling your pet down while providing a fun, enriching, and hydrating experience. Just watch portion sizes and avoid anything with seeds, added sugar, or xylitol.

5. Invest in Cooling Gear

Pets more susceptible to overheating (brachycephalic breeds, overweight pets, and those with certain pre-existing medical conditions, as well as puppies, kittens, and senior companions) might benefit from investing in some cooling gear. Cooling vests, bandanas, and mats are an effective way to help regulate your pet’s body temperature and reduce the risk of overheating.

Hydration at Home, Simple Habits That Help:

Hydration starts at home. You can make it easier for your pet to drink more every day by:

• Placing multiple water bowls in different rooms and outdoor areas to ensure water will be available no matter when or where your pet needs it.

• Cleaning and refilling bowls at least once a day to keep water fresh and appealing.

• Using metal or ceramic bowls helps decrease bacteria and keeps water clean.

• Using a pet water fountain or adding a touch of flavor with a splash of low-sodium broth can encourage picky pups or finicky felines to drink more.

• Monitoring your pet’s water intake can help alert you that you need to encourage them to drink more. Be aware that decreased (or increased) water intake could indicate an underlying health issue; if you are concerned, contact your veterinarian.

  
  

Pro tip: Toss a few ice cubes in your pet’s bowl for an extra refreshing treat on hot days!

How We Keep Your Pets Safe During the Summer Season:

At Daily Leash, we take summer safety seriously. Here are a few of the ways we work to keep your pets cool when the temperatures rise:

• For our heat-sensitive clients, we offer Summer Heat Blocks in our walk schedule. Book your pup’s walk between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM (Heat Block A) or 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM (Heat Block B) so we can get your dog out for a potty break and some exercise, avoiding the hottest part of the day.

• On especially hot days, we keep a closer eye on your pet's comfort and hydration. To meet their needs, we often opt for shorter walks mixed with some indoor play and enrichment.

• We carry water and offer frequent breaks for refreshment and shade.

• We check pavement temperatures to protect sensitive paws and keep to soft, grassy surfaces as much as possible to avoid irritation or burns.

• We rinse and refill water bowls during each visit.

• We provide updates and an activity report after every visit, so you know how your pet is doing.

Summer should be full of sunny strolls, outdoor adventures, and happy, hydrated pets! By following these tips for summer pet hydration, keeping an eye on your pet’s water intake, and taking a few steps to make refreshment accessible and enjoyable, you can help your dog or cat stay cool and comfortable all season long. And at Daily Leash, you can rest assured, we’ve got your pet’s hydration handled too. From cool walk times to plenty of refreshing water breaks along the way, we’re here to help keep your pets active, healthy, happy, and hydrated all summer long!