Taking care of pets in the Summer Heat (Phoenix: house, job transfer)

[Shane73]

I've accepted a job transfer to Phoenix and I'll be relocating there soon. I'm very much looking forward to this opportunity and new chapter in life, and willing to adapt to new lifestyles. One concern I do have is when the heat reaches triple digits in the summer, how do pets adapt? I understand a common sense approach like limited mid day sun exposure, keeping them inside, and plenty of water. But also I've seen ideas such as 'pet boots' to protect their paws form the hot ground and even 'cooling vests'. Please discuss your routines and ideas as to the best way of caring for your pets during the summer heat. Thanks!

[DetroitN8V]

Welcome! Obviously don't leave animals outside in the summer heat. My dogs adapted fairly quickly and they definitely prefer the heat to the cold, although they have a nice air conditioned house to come into. I don't walk the dogs in the summer unless it's early morning or late evening. I rarely do at all though because they get a ton of exercise from swimming. The dogs will go to the grass or under the covered patio if the ground becomes too hot for them. Definitely ensure that they have a shaded area to stand on if you're out with them midday.

Depending on the size of your pet(s), you will also have to keep them safe from coyotes, owls, hawks and other predators. Welcome to the desert!

[observer53]

The cooling vests and boots are available, but if it's hot enough to need those, better to wait to walk the dog until later in the evening, or go out in the morning.

[CheyDee]

My personal philosophy is to step outside barefoot. If the ground is too hot for my feet, I consider it too hot for my dog's pads.

[ElleTea]

Originally Posted by CheyDee

My personal philosophy is to step outside barefoot. If the ground is too hot for my feet, I consider it too hot for my dog's pads.

I take it a step further and test the ground with the back of my hand where the skin is even more sensitive. If it is too hot for that, it is too hot for them.

Also, if it is over 70 it is too hot to leave your dog in the car.

My dogs definitely prefer the heat, they are chihuahuas after all! My boy will sprawl out on the pavement in 100+ degree heat and sunbathe. I have to make him go in.

[Finger Laker]

My dogs both took up laying in the sun out here - frequently on their backs ........... I wouldn't worry too much about investing in boots & vests.

Focus on the basics - don't leave them outside, test the ground before you expect them to walk on it, have water available, temper their exercise if they are too exuberiant for their own good, don't leave them in the car, etc ............. they'll adjust fairly quickly to the heat - just help them avoid bad situations

Also keep an eye on your surroundings - some areas that are less developed, closer to the desert or mountains can have critter concerns ranging from snakes, to other creatures

[hikernut]

I've thought about getting a cooling vest, but haven't yet. I don't know anyone who uses one.

When it's hot I soak our dog's head with some water from my water bottle. I just pour water in my hand and the rub it into the top of her head. Also, we have a local walking path with some water where she can wade in cool off.

hikernut

[PhureeKeeper]

When it gets really hot we take our walks at 5:30 a.m. The dogs are OK staying in the house the rest of the day and lounging in front of floor fans!

[MommaKD]

I have a border collie/Aussie shepherd mix (tons of fur) and she definitely prefers the cool weather to the heat. She demands to be out on the patio for much of the day during the Fall and Winter. I joke that summer has truly arrived when her preference changes to being in the house full time besides bathroom breaks. We don't really do anything special, just some extra grooming during the summer and obviously keeping her indoors during the heat of the day.

[chaparrito]

All I remember from years of healthy puppies and dogs in Phoenix is shade and plenty of fresh water. We had multiple German Shepherds and Collies and only rarely let them in the house.
While it cools off better here than in Phoenix, we have 90+ days of 100 degree temps every summer. My Anatolian Shepherds that live with my livestock don't seem to mind. They hunker down in the trees and wait for sunset.

I wish people these days paid as much attention to their kids as they do their pampered dogs.