Keep Your Pets Safe in the Houston Heat: Tips from the Red Cross
Summer in Houston hits hard. Between backyard barbecues, trips to the park, and family gatherings, our pets are often right there with us. They’re part of our familia, and we want to keep them safe when the temperatures soar. The American Red Cross is sharing important tips to help keep your furry friends healthy this season.
How to Spot Heat Stroke in Pets
Dogs can overheat quickly, especially here in Houston where it’s not just hot—it’s humid. Look for these warning signs of heat stroke:
- Collapse or weakness
- Excessive panting or trouble breathing
- Bloody diarrhea or vomiting
- Seizures, depression, or stupor
- Body temperature over 104°F
If you think your pet is in trouble:
- Move them out of the heat.
- Cool them with water and wet towels on their head, neck, feet, chest, and belly.
- Use a fan and gently rub isopropyl alcohol on their foot pads.
- Stop cooling once they reach 103°F.
- Go to the vet right away. Even if they seem fine, heat stroke can cause hidden damage that shows up later.
Why Some Dogs Are at Higher Risk
Some pets are more vulnerable than others, including:
- Short-snouted breeds like pugs and bulldogs
- Thick-coated dogs in warm weather
- Pets with heart or lung disease
- Dogs left outside without shade
- Any pet with a history of heat stroke
Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car
We love taking our pets everywhere—from grocery runs to visiting abuelita—but even a quick stop can be dangerous. On a warm day, a car’s inside temperature can hit 120°F in minutes, even in the shade.
See a pet alone in a car? Tell store management. If the owner doesn’t return quickly, call animal control or the police.
Year-Round Pet Safety in Houston
- Make sure your pet wears a collar and ID tag—especially during outdoor festivals and trips to the dog park.
- Talk to your vet about heartworm prevention. Mosquitoes are active year-round here.
- Protect your pets from fleas and ticks with vet-approved treatments.
Download the Pet First Aid App
Want quick pet first aid tips in English or Spanish? The American Red Cross has a Pets First Aid App you can download from the Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon Marketplace.
Keep Your Pets Cool, Happy, and Part of the Family Fun
Our pets are part of every Houston adventure—from backyard carne asadas to walks at Buffalo Bayou Park. Share these tips with friends and family to keep our furry friends safe this summer!
Disclaimer: While we do our best to share accurate and up-to-date information, always check with your veterinarian for advice about your pet’s health.
Sandra Fernandez is a professional communicator, tech enthusiast, book lover, and blogger. You can find her main blog at SandraSays.com and more of her writing at HispanicHouston.com.