How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Summer Heat

Summer is a time for sunshine, trails, and tail wags—but rising temperatures can also pose real risks for our four-legged adventurers. Dogs don’t sweat like we do, and even a short walk on a hot day can turn dangerous without the right precautions. Whether you’re headed to the dog park, joining us on Beorn’s Bark Bus, or just strolling your neighborhood, here’s what every dog parent should know about heat safety.

Know the Signs of Overheating

Dogs can overheat fast, especially in humid areas like Raleigh. It’s crucial to spot the early signs of heat stress:

• Excessive panting or drooling

• Bright red gums or tongue

• Lethargy or confusion

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Collapse or unsteady walking

If your dog shows any of these signs, get them to a cool place immediately, offer water, and contact a vet if symptoms don’t improve fast.

Walk Early, Walk Late

Midday heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Pavement and sidewalks heat up quickly and can burn your dog’s paw pads.

Golden rule:
If you wouldn’t walk barefoot on it, neither should they.

Stick to morning or evening walks when the pavement is cooler, and aim for shaded routes. Even better? Let them run off-leash at a private park (we might know a bus that can help with that).

Keep Hydration Handy

Always bring water on outings, even short ones. You can use a collapsible bowl, a squeeze bottle with an attached tray, or even a ziplock bag in a pinch. Encourage your dog to drink frequently, especially after running or playing.

Pro tip:
Add a few ice cubes to their bowl before you leave the house. Dogs love it, and it helps regulate their core temperature.

Never Leave a Dog in a Parked Car

It only takes minutes for a parked car to become life-threatening. Cracked windows don’t help. If you need to run errands, leave your dog at home—or take them somewhere they can tag along safely. (Like, say, a climate-controlled dog adventure bus with AC and frozen peanut butter snacks.)

Offer Shade & Cooling Breaks

If you're outside for a while, make sure there’s shade—trees, umbrellas, or even a pop-up canopy. Cooling mats and portable fans can also help if you're parked somewhere for a bit.

At Beorn’s Bark Bus, we schedule playtime with breaks built in, and we bring shade, water, and ice on every ride. If you’re doing your own adventures, try to mimic that rhythm: play, cool down, hydrate, repeat.

Use the Right Gear

Skip the heavy-duty harnesses or dark collars that absorb heat. Look for breathable mesh or lightweight options. Some dogs benefit from cooling vests soaked in water before walks.

And remember—dogs with flat faces (like Bulldogs and Pugs), seniors, or overweight pups are especially vulnerable. They may need shorter walks and longer breaks.

Frozen Treats Are Your Friend

A frozen banana + a spoonful of peanut butter + a dash of plain yogurt = one happy, chilled-out dog.

You can also freeze chicken broth into cubes, stuff a Kong and freeze it, or make dog-safe pupsicles with blended fruit. It’s enrichment and heat relief in one tasty bite.

Summer Is Meant to Be Fun—Let’s Keep It Safe

At Beorn’s Bark Bus, we’re obsessed with keeping our riders safe, happy, and hydrated. Every adventure is planned with heat safety in mind, from shaded play areas to on-board cooling options.