Let’s be honest — Arizona summers don’t mess around. As pet sitters, we’ve watched thermometers push past 110°F before lunch and pavement hot enough to fry eggs (or paws). It’s not just uncomfortable — it’s dangerous and while it may not make the top 10 causes of deaths in pets in Arizona, it’s very important to avoid.

Dogs and cats can’t sweat like we do, and they’re far more vulnerable to heat. A walk at the wrong time of day, a backyard without shade, or even a few minutes in a parked car can lead to heatstroke and in our Arizona climate, it doesn’t take long…

Here’s what every pet parent needs to know about recognizing heatstroke, how long it’s safe to be outside, and when to stop reading and call the vet.

What Is Heatstroke in Pets?

Heatstroke (also called heat exhaustion or hyperthermia) happens when your pet’s body temperature climbs too high and they can’t cool down. Normal temp for cats and dogs? About 101°F to 102.5°F. Once they hit 104°F, it’s dangerous. 106°F or higher, and you’re looking at possible organ failure or death.

It can happen faster than you think — especially in Arizona.

Recognizing the Signs of Heatstroke

Early signs:

  • Excessive panting or drooling
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Red or pale gums
  • Glazed eyes or anxious pacing
  • Weakness or wobbliness

Advanced signs:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
  • Seizures or collapse
  • Unresponsiveness
  • Body temp over 104°F

Remember, cats are trickier — they usually don’t pant until it’s quite serious. Look for open-mouth breathing, hiding in cool spots, or just acting “off” from their normal selves.

Burned Paws: The Hidden Danger on Every Walk

When it’s just 95°F outside, asphalt can hit 140°F. That’s enough to cause third-degree burns in under 60 seconds. Yes, really. So, you can imagine what happens with highs in the 115-117°F. One of our clients has used a thermometer gun to discover asphalt and hard dirt ground surfaces that are over 180°F.

Pavement test: Place the back of your hand or bare foot on the pavement for 7–10 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Learn more about this in our 7 Things to Know About Hiking with Pets in Arizona.

Paw burn signs:

  • Limping or refusal to walk
  • Licking/chewing at feet
  • Redness, swelling, or blisters
  • Cracked pads

First aid:

  • Rinse gently with cool (not icy) water
  • Pat dry and apply paw balm
  • Call your vet if you see blisters or open wounds

First Aid for Heatstroke: What Actually Works

Let’s clear this up — do not soak your dog in ice water or wrap them in cold, wet towels. That can shock their system or trap heat. Here’s what does help:

✅ Move them to shade or AC
✅ Wet groin, armpits, and paw pads with cool water
✅ Use a fan to help evaporation
✅ Offer small sips of water
✅ Monitor their temperature — if it’s 104°F or more, call your vet on the way to the car

⛔ No ice baths. No freezing water. No waiting to see if it gets better.

How Long Is It Safe to Be Outside?

Short answer? Not long.

  • Early morning or after dark are your best bets for walks
  • Keep it under 10 minutes when it’s over 90°F
  • Avoid midday entirely (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
  • Stick to grass, dirt, or shaded trails
  • Use paw wax or booties — or just play inside

Some pets are at much higher risk:

  • Flat-faced breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats)
  • Puppies and seniors
  • Overweight pets
  • Pets with heart or lung conditions

When to See the Vet (Hint: Don’t Wait)

Even if your pet seems better after cooling down, heatstroke can have lingering effects:

  • Brain swelling
  • Liver or kidney damage
  • Blood clotting issues

The safest move is always to see your vet immediately. Heatstroke is not a DIY situation.

The (Brutal) Numbers

  • Trupanion reports a 297% spike in heatstroke claims during July
  • Average emergency cost? $1,664
  • Most expensive claim on record: $18,130
  • From 2018–2022, over 250 U.S. pets died from heat-related causes
  • 74% of heatstroke cases come from exercise, not being left in a hot car
  • Nearly half of heatstroke deaths involve brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds
  • Phoenix now sees 40 more extreme-heat days each year than in 1970

How We Handle Heat at Pampered Pets and Plants

We’re not just “pet people” — we’re Arizona heat people, too. We know how fast things can go sideways. That’s why we take heat management seriously as petsitters:

  • No walks during peak heat, period
  • Plenty of water, shade, and rest time
  • Fans, cooling mats, and hydration tricks for cats and dogs
  • Paw checks after every outing
  • Watching for early signs of distress, not just dramatic symptoms

We adjust every visit to the pet in front of us — because some pets can handle more than others, but none of them can handle Arizona summer without help.

Heatstroke is Preventable — But Only If You’re Paying Attention

Heatstroke and paw burns are 100% preventable, but only if you know the signs and act quickly. Don’t trust the thermostat. Trust the pavement. Trust your pet. Trust your gut. And if you’re leaving town, make sure your sitter knows what to do. If you’re in our area — we’ve got it covered. Need help keeping pets cool and safe this summer? Reach out. We’re here for you (and them).