Summer is dangerous for your pet. Here’s how to keep them safe.
The the unrelenting heat of the summer can be really dangerous for pets. Fireworks on the fourth aren’t the only danger, but also the festivities can bring other, lesser known dangers for pets.
As we fire up the grills and gather our family and friends, we can’t forget to protect our four-legged loved ones from all the possible dangers of the season, well-known and otherwise.
The experts at the pet care and advice platform Kinship highlight some common problems so every Georgia pet owner can keep their animals safe and stress-free this holiday.
Cookout and picnic hazards
The grill area is a magnet for curious dogs, and there are many foods we eat in the summer that can be harmful and can cause life-threatening injuries.
Bones (especially chicken)
Corn cobs
Peach pits
Watermelon rinds
Wooden skewers can puncture internal organs or get lodged in the esophagus
Hot grill drippings can tempt pets to lick up debris leading to accidental ingestion of non-food items.
Toxic substances
Some substances that humans tolerate can be really toxic to animals, even in small amounts. Regular summer items, if ingested or licked, can hurt your animals.
Some household items may cause symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to severe lethargy, decreased heart rate, or even coma.
Keep your pets away from these things:
Sunscreen
Bug spray (especially containing DEET)
Lighter fluid or fumes
Surface-burn injuries
Georgia’s summer heat can be brutal for humans and even more so for animals. If you can’t comfortably hold the back of your hand on a surface for five seconds, it’s too hot for your pet.
The American Kennel Club warns, if the air temperature is around 85°F or higher, pavement temperatures can soar to 120 to 150°F.
Beware of the following surfaces:
Hot sidewalks
Patios
Pool decks can burn paw pads
Dark-colored asphalt
Vehicle seats and surfaces
Dehydration
Animals can quickly develop symptoms of dehydration. Active dogs need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily, and more if they’re running around outdoors.
The UGA College of Veterinary Medicine suggests the following for keeping your pets feeling hydrated:
Keep fresh water available
Use multiple water bowls
Bring water with you when you’re on the go
Incorporate wet food
Look for signs like lethargy, sunken eyes, excessive panting or loss of appetite
Limit exercise during the hottest part of the day
With so many variables to your pet’s peace and safety, Kinship has some advice to keep your pet safe and calm.
Create a Safe Haven
Leave pets at home in a quiet, comfortable room with no windows to muffle the sound of fireworks.
Set up their favorite bed, toys and some background noise like a TV or white noise machine.
Prep an anti-anxiety kit
Offer safe chew toys to soothe nerves.
Consider a Thundershirt or similar calming wrap.
For severe anxiety, CBD treats or prescription anti-anxiety medication could be an option.
Double-check tags and microchips
Make sure the contact info is up-to-date.
Keep your animal leashed when away from home and consider attaching the leash to your waist for extra security.
Forbid human food
Don’t give in to begging.
Keep bones, corn cobs, watermelon rinds and skewers away.
Remind guests not to feed table scraps.
Be mindful of chemicals
Store dangerous or questionable substances out of reach.
Clean up spills immediately.
Don’t let pets lick your skin after you’ve applied sunscreen or insect repellent.
Keep a watchful eye
Watch for symptoms like excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or limping (which could signal a burn).
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away if you notice anything.
Although summer time is meant to be fun, it can be fraught with dangers for your four-legged friends.
What advice did I miss to keep them safe? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.
This story was originally published July 3, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
