Dog Days Done Right: Pet Safety Tips for Summer in Ohio

Summer in Northeast Ohio brings sunny days, outdoor adventures, and — unfortunately — rising temperatures that can be dangerous for pets. From Akron to Cleveland and all across Summit, Cuyahoga, and Medina counties, pet owners should take extra precautions to keep dogs and cats safe from the heat. Here’s how to help your furry friends stay cool, hydrated, and protected through the dog days of summer.

Hydration Is a Must

Always provide cool, fresh water indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re relaxing at home or heading to a local dog park like Bow Wow Beach in Stow or Canine Meadows in Strongsville, bring a portable water bowl and refill often. Frozen broth cubes or pet-safe popsicles are a hit with pups.

Beat the Heat with Timing

Walk your dog early in the morning or after sunset when sidewalks and blacktops are cooler. Remember: If you can’t hold your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws. Many Northeast Ohio vet clinics report an uptick in paw burns during July.

Invest in Cooling Products

From cooling mats and vests to pet-safe splash pads, there are plenty of options to help pets chill. Look for these items at local pet stores like PetPeople or Love-A-Stray’s resale shop in Avon Lake.

Safe Spaces at Home

If your home doesn’t have A/C, keep blinds closed during the hottest part of the day and set up fans or cooling zones. Never leave a pet in a parked car — even for a quick stop at Giant Eagle or Heinen’s. A car in the shade can reach over 100°F in minutes.

Know the Signs of Heat Distress

Watch for symptoms like heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, or vomiting. Heatstroke is an emergency — move your pet to a cool area and call your local emergency vet (MedVet Akron, VCA Great Lakes, etc.).

Grooming for Summer

Regular brushing helps reduce matting and overheating. Local groomers in Macedonia, Brecksville, and Aurora can provide summer-specific cuts — just avoid shaving double-coated breeds completely.

Special Care for Vulnerable Pets

Older animals, short-nosed breeds (like boxers and bulldogs), and very young pets need extra care during Northeast Ohio’s humid summer days. Monitor them closely and limit outdoor time.

Pet Heat Safety Checklist for July in Northeast Ohio

Summer weather in our region can be hot and humid — a dangerous combo for pets. Save or share this quick checklist to help keep your furry companions safe all month long:

1. Touch-Test the Pavement Before Walks
   If you can’t hold your hand to the ground for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
2. Walk During Cooler Hours
   Stick to early mornings or after sunset to avoid midday heat.
3. Always Bring Water
   Whether you’re hiking in CVNP or visiting a local dog park, hydration is a must.
4. Watch for Signs of Overheating
   Panting, drooling, red gums, vomiting, or weakness? Move to shade and call your vet.
5. Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars
   Not even with the windows cracked. Temps can soar to deadly levels in minutes.
6. Groom Regularly
   Brush out undercoats to reduce heat-trapping mats — especially for long-haired breeds.
7. Use Cooling Gear at Home
   Set up shaded rest spots with fans, cooling mats, or even a splash pad in your yard.
8. Avoid Overexertion
   Keep outdoor play short and restful, especially for senior pets or flat-faced breeds.
9. Know Your Emergency Vet
   Keep the number and location of your nearest 24/7 animal hospital on hand.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep Our Pets — and Each Other — Safe

As temperatures rise across Northeast Ohio, it’s on all of us — pet parents, neighbors, and local businesses — to help keep our furry friends safe. Whether you’re out walking in Hudson, hiking the Cuyahoga Valley trails, or relaxing in your own backyard, a little awareness goes a long way.

Share these tips with friends, family, and fellow pet owners — because when we look out for each other, we make summer safer for every tail and paw in our community.