Provide plenty of H2O. Keep water bowls filled with fresh water, especially if you are spending time outside. Carry a portable water bottle and bowl during walks or trips.

Find cool spots. Make sure your pet has access to shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces where they can cool down and rest.

Avoid hot pavement to protect their paws. Walking your pet on hot pavement can lead to burns on their sensitive paw pads. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for their paws. Walk them early in the morning or late in the evening when the ground is cooler.

Never leave pets in cars. Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, putting your pet at risk for heatstroke or life-threatening conditions. Leave your pet at home instead.

Groom them regularly. Trim their coat to help them stay cool but avoid shaving breeds with thick fur (which helps to regulate their temperature). Regular brushing helps prevent matting and keeps them cool.

Watch for heat stress. Symptoms like excessive panting, drooling or lethargy are signs of heat stress. Act quickly, move your pet to a cooler area and consult your vet.

Use pet-safe sunscreen. Pets with light-colored fur or exposed skin (like noses and ears) are at risk for sunburn. Invest in a pet-safe sunscreen and apply it to these areas before spending time outdoors.

Cool down with a snack. Frozen treats, like ice cubes or frozen pet-safe treats, are a fun and effective way to help your pet cool down while keeping them entertained.

What to do if your pet overheats. If your pet starts to show signs of overheating, act fast. Move them to a shaded area, apply cool (not cold) water to help lower their body temperature, and contact your vet immediately for guidance. Overheating can be life-threatening, so do not wait too long to seek help.