Twin Cities heatwave puts pets at risk—here's how to protect them

Temperatures are rising across the Twin Cities this week. Pet owners are being urged to take extra care to protect their animals from the heat. Dogs can overheat rapidly, particularly during the peak hours of the day. Owners should restrict outdoor time to short bathroom breaks when temperatures hit the 90s. Walks are best saved for the cooler mornings or evenings.

Hot pavement can burn a dog’s paws, so it should be avoided entirely. Leaving a pet in a parked car, even with windows slightly open, remains a serious risk. Pets should always have access to fresh water.

Signs of overheating or dehydration include excessive panting, vomiting, heavy drooling, confusion, or difficulty walking. In cats, open-mouth breathing is a clear emergency. Owners are advised to find indoor activities to keep pets active until the weather cools. The heat poses real dangers to pets if precautions are ignored. Simple steps like adjusting walk times, providing water, and avoiding hot surfaces can prevent serious harm. Recognising the early signs of heat stress may save an animal’s life.