Pets and Hot Pavement: A Family Checklist
Original preparedness explainer · Reviewed as a draft October 29, 2026 · General U.S. guidance
Dogs and other animals may overheat quickly when exercise, sun and hot surfaces combine. Pets also need shade and access to water on very hot days.
Move walks to cooler hours, monitor pavement comfort, and plan where animals can stay cool if the power fails. Never leave a pet in a parked car.
Keep the phone number of a veterinarian accessible and learn the signs of heat distress for the animal in your care.
Heat deserves advance planning. Check local heat alerts, find a reliable cool indoor space, drink water as appropriate, and help neighbors who may have trouble staying cool. A fan alone may not keep an extremely hot room safe.
Put this into action
Choose one manageable improvement today. Confirm current warnings and local instructions with your city/county emergency management agency and the National Weather Service.