Texas Summer Heat Can Be Deadly For Pets Here’s What Every Owner Needs To Know

If you’ve lived in Texas longer than about 12 minutes, you already know summer here doesn’t mess around. We’re talking triple-digit temps, steering wheels hot enough to brand cattle, and sidewalks that feel like a George Foreman grill. While we humans can crank the AC, grab a cold drink, or complain about ERCOT on Facebook, our pets are kinda stuck depending on us.

And look, I love my dogs like family. My white boxer Tucker is basically a giant toddler with four legs and zero survival instincts. The dude would absolutely lie in the sun until he turned into a rotisserie chicken if I let him. That’s why keeping pets cool during brutal Texas summers is a huge deal.

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Yes, Pets Can Actually Get Sunburned

Photo: Chaz

A lot of folks don’t realize this, but pets can absolutely get sunburned. White or light-colored animals are especially vulnerable. Tucker’s white coat might look cool, but that Texas sun hits him harder than a July electric bill.

Sunburn can happen on noses, ears, bellies, and other spots with thinner fur. And overheating? That can happen scary fast. Dogs and cats don’t sweat as we do, so once they start overheating, things can go downhill in a hurry.

Check Out These Simple Summer Pet Safety Tips

That’s why I put together this gallery of easy ways to help keep your pets safe, cool, and comfortable during another scorching Texas summer. Some are common sense, some might surprise you, and a couple might save your furry buddy from a really bad day.

MORE: Did You Know Pets Can Have Belly Buttons?

Because let’s be honest...our pets would protect us without hesitation. The least we can do is help them survive the annual Texas heat apocalypse.