Keeping Pets Safe in Intense Summer Heat

If you’ve lived in Salt Lake City, you know our summers can be intense. This week, temperatures climbed to 109°F, creating dangerous conditions not only for people but for our pets as well. While many dogs love spending time outdoors, extreme heat can quickly lead to burned paws, dehydration, and even life-threatening heatstroke.

Whether you’re heading out for a hike, planning a family vacation, or simply running errands around town, these simple tips will help keep your dog safe during Utah’s hottest days.

1. Walk Early or Late in the Day

During a 109°F Salt Lake City summer day, pavement temperatures can soar well above 150°F. That’s hot enough to burn your dog’s paw pads in seconds.

A simple test is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If you can’t keep it there comfortably, it’s too hot for your dog.

The safest times for walks are before 8:00 a.m. or after the sun goes down. Early mornings and evenings are not only cooler but also much more enjoyable for both you and your furry companion.

2. Keep Fresh Water Available at All Times

Dogs can become dehydrated much faster than people realize during hot weather.

Always bring fresh water on walks, road trips, and outdoor adventures. At home, make sure your dog always has access to cool, clean drinking water.

Watch for signs of dehydration, including:

• Excessive panting
• Dry or sticky gums
• Lethargy
• Sunken eyes
• Loss ofappetite

If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog into a cool, shaded area immediately and contact your veterinarian if they don’t improve quickly.

3. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can become deadly within minutes.

When it’s 109°F outside, the temperature inside a parked car can climb well over 140°F before you know it.

If you’re preparing for a trip, running errands, or simply need a safe place for your dog during the hottest part of the day, consider bringing them to Coddled Critters. Our climate-controlled facility keeps pets cool, comfortable, and cared for while you take care of your day, giving you peace of mind that they’re safe from the dangerous summer heat.

4. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Common warning signs include:

• Heavy panting
• Bright red gums
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Difficulty walking
• Collapse

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately, offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water, and contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away.

5. Make Vacation Plans Early

Summer is one of the busiest seasons for dog boarding in Salt Lake City, and the best facilities often fill up weeks in advance.

Planning ahead means you won’t have to scramble for care at the last minute—and your dog will enjoy a safe, comfortable place while you’re away.

At Coddled Critters Pet Resort & Spaw, we’ve been helping Salt Lake families travel with confidence by providing a clean, climate-controlled environment where every guest receives personalized attention, supervised playtime, comfortable accommodations, and lots of love.

Whether you’re leaving for a weekend getaway, visiting family, or taking a well-earned vacation, your dog deserves a vacation, too.

6. Protect Sensitive Paw Pads

Hot sidewalks aren’t the only danger during Utah summers.

Concrete, asphalt, gravel, artificial turf, and even sand can become dangerously hot during the afternoon.

Whenever possible:

• Walk on grass instead of pavement.
• Stay in shaded areas.
• Limit outdoor exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Consider protective dog booties if you’ll be walking on hot surfaces.

Your dog’s paws will thank you.

7. Keep Your Dog Mentally Active Indoors

Some summer afternoons are simply too hot for outdoor adventures.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog entertained indoors.

Try activities like:

• Food puzzle toys
• Frozen treats
• Hide-and-seek games
• Basic obedience practice
• Indoor fetch
• Nose work games

Mental stimulation helps burn energy and prevents boredom.

If you’re at work during the day or simply want your pup to enjoy a fun, active environment while staying cool, dog daycare at Coddled Critters offers supervised play, socialization, and plenty of attention in a safe, climate-controlled setting.

Give Your Dog a Summer Vacation, Too!

When you’re planning your summer vacation, don’t forget about your four-legged family member.

Instead of staying home alone or relying on friends or neighbors, let your dog enjoy a vacation of their own at Coddled Critters Pet Resort & Spaw.

Our guests spend their days playing, relaxing, making new friends, and receiving plenty of love and attention from our experienced team. Every dog is different, so we take the time to understand their personality and needs to make their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Whether your dog loves social playtime or prefers a quieter environment, our caring staff is committed to making every visit feel like home.

Summer is one of our busiest seasons, so we recommend reserving your dog’s stay early to ensure availability.

Make Your Dog’s Summer as Enjoyable as Yours

When temperatures reach 109°F, keeping your dog safe becomes more important than ever. A little planning goes a long way toward preventing heat-related emergencies and ensuring your pet stays happy and healthy throughout the summer.

Whether you’re heading out of town, working long hours, or simply looking for a fun, safe place for your dog to spend the day, Coddled Critters Pet Resort & Spaw is here to help.

Our Salt Lake City pet resort offers:

• Climate-controlled accommodations
• Spacious play areas
• Supervised daycare
• Overnight dog boarding
• Personalized care for every guest
• Experienced staff who genuinely love animals

We treat every pet like a member of our own family because we know that’s exactly what they are to you.

If you’re looking for dog boarding in Salt Lake City, dog daycare, or a trusted place for your pet while you’re away, we’d love to welcome you to the Coddled Critters family.

Contact us today to schedule a tour or reserve your pet’s stay before our summer calendar fills up!