When the thermometer climbs, we humans know exactly what to do. We turn on fans, find shade, grab a cold drink, and complain about how miserable the heat feels. But what about the animals who depend on us to recognize the signs that they are struggling? Our dogs, cats, horses, livestock, and backyard animals don’t get to walk inside, open the refrigerator, or tell us, “I’m too hot.” They rely on us to notice the little things before the heat becomes dangerous.

Every summer, as a vet, see first hand horses losing tremendous weight, and even dying, from being unable to defend themselves from fly attacks, causing major skin lesions over their entire bodies, combined with suffering in the tremendous heat. It is sad, but true. Don’t let this happen to any of your beloved animals!

For our dogs and cats, the biggest mistake people make during extreme heat is underestimating how quickly temperatures can rise. A short walk on hot pavement can burn paw pads, and a few minutes in a parked vehicle can become life-threatening. Remember that animals are wearing a fur coat all year long, and many breeds were not designed for intense heat. Walk early in the morning or later in the evening, provide plenty of fresh water, and always give your pets access to a cool, shaded place. Other tools to consider are adding ice cubes to their water bowl, and purchasing cooking mats.

Keep in mind, their behavior might change, too. Your dog may no longer want to get on the bed in this heat. That’s ok. Just make sure the wood, tile, or concrete they lay on, instead, is padded so they don’t get hairless, thickened skin on their sensitive elbows. And some animals are afraid of the air conditioner. Maybe, instead, they can spend more time out in the garage. Simply observe their behavior and try to help them the best you can to be comfortable.

One of the best tricks is to think like your pet. Would you want to stand barefoot on the driveway? Would you want to sit outside without water or shade? If the answer is no, your pet probably doesn’t either.

For our larger animals, especially horses, the challenges become even greater because they often live outside and cannot simply escape the elements. Horses regulate body temperature through sweating, but during extreme heat and humidity, sweating becomes less effective. A horse that is breathing heavily, sweating excessively, acting lethargic, or not drinking enough water may be in trouble.

Simple steps can make a huge difference. Make sure clean, cool water is always available. Provide shade whenever possible. Keep manure cleaned up so the area is clean and dry. Trim the weeds around the barn. Use fans safely in barns and shelters to increase airflow. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. And remember that hydration is more than just water. Electrolytes can be helpful for animals that are sweating heavily, but they should be used correctly and not as a replacement for proper management.

Then there is another summer enemy that many people underestimate: flies.

Flies are not just annoying. They can cause stress, discomfort, skin irritation, infections, and even contribute to the spread of disease. Anyone who has watched a horse constantly stomping, swishing its tail, or trying to bite at its own body knows the frustration flies create. An animal spending all day fighting flies is not resting, eating, or relaxing the way it should.

This is where prevention becomes so important. At the ResqRanch, we believe that true animal care is about looking at the whole picture: the animal’s physical health, emotional well-being, environment, and daily comfort. Whether we are working with rescued horses, helping owners understand better R+ training techniques, or educating people about animal wellness, our goal is always the same: give animals a better quality of life.

One of the tools we have seen make a remarkable difference during fly season is my all natural and organic ShooFly spray. I, for one, never want to be without it again since we started using it here on our rescue animals. Many people who have followed our videos have seen the results firsthand. It has become one of those simple tools that can dramatically improve an animal’s comfort, especially during the relentless summer months when flies seem impossible to escape.

The difference is often obvious. Instead of constantly shaking their heads, stomping their feet, or trying to get away from biting insects, the flies just fall off, and animals can relax. And a relaxed animal is a healthier animal.

https://www.resqranch.org/shoo-fly

The reality is that there is no single magic solution for surviving extreme heat. It is a combination of awareness, preparation, and paying attention to what our animals are trying to tell us. Sometimes the most important health care happens before there is ever an emergency.

The hottest days of summer are challenging, but they are also an opportunity. They remind us that animals are not just property or responsibilities on a checklist. They are living beings who trust us completely.

At the ResqRanch, we believe education is one of the greatest gifts we can give animals and their owners. If you want to learn more about keeping your animals healthier, happier, and safer through every season, follow along with our educational videos on my YouTube channel, @The1DrQ, and FREE resources at ResqRanch.org. Our clinics may fill quickly, but our mission continues every day: helping people understand animals better so animals can live better.

Because whether they have four paws, four hooves, feathers, or fins, every animal deserves comfort, kindness, and a chance to thrive — especially when summer turns up the heat.

Stay cool out there! On the inside, and the outside.

- DrQ and the Crew of Aspen Park Vet Hospital and the ResqRanch

​