06/02/2026
Summer heat doesn’t just mean warmer walks. It also means a higher risk of heat stress and heat stroke in pets.
The tricky part? Some panting is normal… but some signs are an emergency. Knowing the difference can help you act fast and keep your pet safe.
A few key takeaways to remember:
- Not all panting is dangerous, but persistent heavy panting is a red flag
- Heat stroke can escalate quickly and requires immediate action
- Prevention, like avoiding peak heat and easing into warmer weather, is everything
We’ve put together a full breakdown in our latest blog post written by Dr. Lisa Olsen, an emergency and critical care specialist. Tips like the 60 day rule to safely acclimate your pet to rising temperatures and what to watch for during summer walks. It’s all there!
Head to ncvma.org or take our link in bio to read ‘Beat the Heat.’
Save this post so you can refer back to it all summer long
Share it with a fellow pet parent. It could help save a life this season!