Heat | Bark If You're Dirty

Cat Heatstroke and what you need to know

BIYD Staff — Sat, 14 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000

As humans, we’re acutely aware of the dangers of the sun. From sunburn to skin cancer, that gigantic ball of fire in the sky can cause serious damage if we’re not careful.

For our feline friends, it can be even more dangerous. As most are covered in a layer of fur — some much thicker than others — it can mean their temperature rises rapidly in direct sunlight. As a result, they’re at high risk of the effects of the sun, including heatstroke.

So knowing the signs of heatstroke in cats is crucial for all cat parents: if you see any of them, you have the knowledge to act quickly and help your cat before they become seriously ill.

What is heatstroke in cats?

Heatstroke in cats occurs when their body temperature reaches dangerously high levels.

A cat’s normal body temperature is between 100.5°F and 102.5°F (38.1°C-39.2°C). This can go higher if they’re suffering from an illness that gives them a fever.

However, if their temperature reaches above 104°F (40°C), it’s a sign they’re suffering from heatstroke. This can lead to dehydration, seizures, organ damage and, in severe cases, death.

What are the signs of heatstroke in cats?

Signs and symptoms that your cat might be suffering from heatstroke include:

Confusion
Drooling
Panting
Bright red or pale gums
Increased heart rate
Seizures
Lethargy
Vomiting and diarrhea

If you suspect your cat is suffering from heatstroke, it’s an emergency, and you should seek help and advice from your vet immediately.

How do you avoid your cat getting heatstroke?

Cats are sun-worshippers — they love nothing more than to find a warm place, stretch out and soak in the warmth for hours. Your cat can’t sweat (except through their paw pads), so to cool themselves down they either lick themselves or seek shade when they become too hot. They don’t often build up too much heat due to exercise or overexertion, so usually the causes of heatstroke in cats is a result of being shut in a warm building such as a greenhouse or conservatory for too long and then overheating, so ensure you never shut them in rooms that get hot — this includes vehicles, which can also be lethal for cats on hot days.

Ensure your cat always has access to fresh water, especially during heatwaves, and feeding them wet food will increase their moisture intake. Ensure they always have a shady spot in which to cool down, and keep your house well-ventilated when the heat rises, using fans, air-conditioning or open windows to get a cooling breeze blowing. Also, avoid taking them in the car when temperatures are high.

Something else to be aware of is your cat’s weight — if your cat is overweight or obese, they are more susceptible to heatstroke. Also, flat-faced breeds such as Persian, Himalayan or Burmese cats are at higher risk, as are younger and older cats.

The key thing to remember is to keep an eye on them in hot weather, try to keep them indoors in a well-ventilated room where possible, ensure you don’t accidentally shut them in a room, and don’t take them in the car unless absolutely necessary.

What should you do if you think your cat has heatstroke?

The first thing is to try to cool them down. Try to get them to drink water (don’t force them, though) and cool them down with ice packs and fans. Whether you think the heatstroke is mild or severe, you should aim to get your cat to the vet as a priority. Your vet will then assess the severity of the situation and may put your cat on a fluid drip.

They may also need blood and urine tests if they’ve suffered severe heatstroke and dehydration. They may have to stay in and be monitored for a few days to ensure they’re ok.

Surviving the Sizzle: Keeping Your Pets Safe in the Arizona Summer Heat

BIYD Staff — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Here in Arizona, we know summer doesn’t just mean sunshine; it means serious heat! While we humans can easily duck into the A/C, grab an iced drink, or change our plans, our furry companions rely entirely on us to keep them safe when the temperatures soar. Understanding the dangers and taking preventative steps is crucial for a happy and healthy summer with your pets.

The Big Dangers: More Than Just Feeling Hot

Extreme heat poses several significant risks to our pets:

1. Heatstroke (Hyperthermia): This is a life-threatening emergency. Unlike humans, dogs and cats primarily cool themselves by panting. When they can’t pant fast enough to dissipate heat, their internal body temperature rises to dangerous levels, potentially causing organ damage or death.

Signs: Excessive panting, thick drool, bright red gums/tongue, lethargy, weakness, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, stumbling, collapse, seizures.
Higher Risk Pets: Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persians; elderly pets; overweight pets; pets with heart or respiratory conditions; dark-coated pets.

2. Dehydration: Just like us, pets need plenty of water to stay cool and function properly. Heat increases water loss through panting and sweating (minimally through paws).

Signs: Lethargy, dry gums, sunken eyes, loss of skin elasticity (if you gently pinch the skin on their back, it doesn’t spring back quickly), thick saliva.

3. Burnt Paw Pads: This is a major, often overlooked danger here in Arizona. Pavement, asphalt, sand, and even artificial turf absorb and retain heat intensely, reaching temperatures far higher than the air temperature. Walking on these surfaces can cause painful blisters and burns on your pet’s sensitive paw pads.

Pavement Power: How Hot is Too Hot?

Never underestimate how hot surfaces can get. Your pet’s paws are vulnerable! Here’s a general idea of how pavement temperatures soar compared to the air temperature:

Air Temperature (*F)	Approximate Asphalt Temperature (*F)	Danger Level
77°F	~125°F	Can cause skin destruction after 60 seconds
85°F	~135*F	Increases Danger by 50%
87°F	~143°F	Burns can occur very quickly
95°F	~150°F – 160°F	Extremely dangerous; immediate burn potential
100°F	*~160°F – 180°F	Instantaneous, severe burns possible

The 5-Second Rule: Place the back of your hand firmly on the pavement for 5-7 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your pet’s paws!

4. Sunburn: Yes, pets can get sunburned too! Especially those with white or light-colored fur, thin coats, or pink skin around the nose and ears are susceptible

Keeping Your Cool: Essential Summer Safety Tips

Timing is Everything: Walk dogs during the coolest parts of the day – early morning (before sunrise if possible!) or late evening, well after the sun has set and surfaces have had time to cool down. Midday walks are a major risk.
Surface Smarts: Stick to grassy areas or shaded paths whenever possible. If you must cross pavement, do it quickly. Consider protective dog booties (allow time for your dog to get used to them indoors first). Never force your pet to stand or walk on hot surfaces.
Hydration Hero: Always provide access to fresh, cool water indoors and outdoors (in shade). Bring water and a collapsible bowl on walks, no matter how short. Add ice cubes to their water bowl.
NEVER, EVER Leave Pets in Cars: Even on a seemingly mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket to lethal levels within minutes – even with windows cracked. It’s dangerous, potentially fatal, and illegal in many places. Just don’t do it.
Provide Shade & Cool Zones: Ensure pets have access to shady spots if they spend time outdoors. Indoors, air conditioning is best. Cooling mats, elevated beds (allowing airflow underneath), or even damp towels can provide relief. Some dogs enjoy a shallow kiddie pool with cool water.
Grooming Considerations: While fur can offer some insulation, matted coats trap heat. Regular grooming is important. However, **don’t assume shaving is always best**, especially for double-coated breeds (like Huskies, German Shepherds). Their undercoat can actually help regulate temperature. Consult your vet or a professional groomer about the best approach for your specific pet’s coat.
Know the Signs & Act Fast: If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cool, shaded area or A/C immediately. Offer cool (not ice-cold) water. Apply cool, damp cloths to their head, neck, armpits, groin, and paws. **Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency vet clinic immediately – this is crucial even if they seem to be recovering.

Summer in Arizona is beautiful, but it demands extra vigilance from pet parents. By understanding the risks and taking these precautions, you can ensure your beloved companions stay safe, comfortable, and happy all season long. Stay cool out there!

Protecting our pets in Arizona’s Extreme Heat

BIYD Staff — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 20:40:54 +0000

Here are some valuable tips and information to ensure the well-being of your furry companions during this Arizona extreme heat.

Heat Safety Tips:
Heat safety is crucial for our beloved furry friends, especially during scorching summer months. Dogs and cats are susceptible to heat-related injuries and illnesses, pet owners must be vigilant in protecting them from the dangers of hot pavement and surfaces. On hot days, asphalt and concrete can reach scalding temperatures that can quickly burn the sensitive paw pads of our pets. To prevent this, it’s essential to take walks during cooler hours of the day, such as early mornings or late evenings when the ground is not as hot. Consider our Alcott Dog boots for maximum safety!

Providing shade and access to fresh water is paramount for keeping pets cool and hydrated. When outside, ensure there are shaded areas where your pets can rest and escape the direct heat of the sun. Keep water bowls filled with fresh and cool water, and consider using pet-friendly cooling mats or providing a shallow pool for your pets to wade in, as these can help regulate their body temperature. Don’t forget to bring a travel water bottle for on-the-go adventures!

Leaving pets in hot cars is an incredibly dangerous practice that can have devastating consequences. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a car can soar to life-threatening levels within minutes. Dogs and cats are unable to regulate their body temperature as efficiently as humans, and being trapped in a hot car can lead to heatstroke, organ failure, and even death. As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to never leave pets unattended in a parked vehicle, no matter how brief the errand may be.

Understanding and addressing the risks of hot pavement and surfaces, providing shade and access to fresh water, and never leaving pets in hot cars are essential elements of ensuring the safety and well-being of our furry companions during hot weather. By taking these precautions and being proactive in protecting our pets from the heat, we can enjoy a safe and enjoyable summer together with our four-legged friends.

Grooming:
One of the most effective ways to help pets cope with the heat is through proper grooming practices. Regular brushing is not only beneficial for maintaining their coat’s health but also aids in temperature regulation. Brushing helps to remove excess fur and prevents matting, allowing for better air circulation and reducing the risk of overheating. For long-haired breeds, consider trimming their fur to a reasonable length to avoid trapping heat close to their bodies. A healthy, brushed coat also protects pets from overheating and from direct sunlight. We recommend a trim for the dogs that have longer hair and a de-shedding treatment for the pets with shedding undercoats. We offer these services with our full service grooming (available by appointment), or a walk-in self-wash experience if you and your pet prefer to stick together. Please give us a call to make an appointment for grooming of if you have additional questions you can also visit our website www.barkifyouredirty.pet

Events and Activities:
August in Arizona is a fantastic time for pet lovers as our state hosts a plethora of pet-friendly events that cater to our four-legged companions. Dog owners and their furry friends can beat the heat and have a blast at indoor dog parks scattered throughout various cities. These indoor facilities provide a safe and air-conditioned environment for dogs to socialize, play fetch, and burn off energy. It’s an excellent opportunity for pups to interact with other dogs and for owners to exchange tips and stories. These indoor dog parks often offer amenities such as agility equipment and training sessions, making it a delightful outing for both pets and their humans.

For those seeking a refreshing and splashing good time, many dog-friendly swimming pools open their doors during August. These specially designed pools allow dogs to take a dip and stay cool in the scorching Arizona summer. Whether your pup is a seasoned swimmer or a first-time paddler, these aquatic adventures offer a fun and refreshing experience for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Lifeguards and pet safety measures are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable time for everyone involved.

In the spirit of giving back to our animal friends in need, August is also a time for various adoption events across the state. Shelters and rescue organizations come together to find loving forever homes for countless deserving pets. From adoption drives at local pet stores to larger-scale adoption fairs in parks, these events serve as a wonderful opportunity for families to welcome a new furry member into their homes. With a diverse array of dogs and cats eagerly waiting for loving homes, these events help promote responsible pet ownership and bring immeasurable joy to both the adopted pets and their adoptive families. Whether you’re a lifelong pet enthusiast or considering adding a pet to your family for the first time, August in Arizona offers a vibrant and heartwarming range of pet-friendly events that cater to all. Here are some great places to look: The Arizona Animal Welfare League and Arizona Humane Society

Reader Submissions:
As the scorching rays of the summer sun envelop us, let’s remember that our beloved furry companions need our help to stay safe and content during this sweltering season. We believe in the power of community and the wisdom that comes from shared experiences. We would love if you share your invaluable stories and tips for keeping dogs and cats safe and happy during the hot summer months. Whether it’s creative ways to keep them cool, insights on hydration, or cautionary tales that have taught you important lessons, your contributions can make a real difference in the lives of countless pets and their owners. Together, let’s create a supportive and compassionate space where we can learn from one another, ensuring that our four-legged friends have the best summer possible. So, don’t hesitate – share your knowledge and let’s make this season a safe and memorable one for our beloved companions!

The Heat Is On!

BIYD Staff — Fri, 12 May 2023 16:08:29 +0000

As you know Arizona’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the earlier months of the year. In this newsletter we will talk about ways to help your pets stay active while protecting them as the weather gets warmer.What temperature is too hot to walk your dog?
Generally, at temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, most dogs are at risk of heatstroke and you should avoid exercising your dog in that heat. For many dogs, outdoor activity at temperatures above 82°F can be dangerous.

Walking Dogs in Hot Weather
Check the pavement. Asphalt, concrete, and sand on a sunny day can potentially be 40° – 60° hotter than the air temperature, and 125°F pavement can damage your pup’s paws in as little as 60 seconds.

A quick way to check if the pavement is too hot is to place your hand on a sunny part of the pavement. If you can’t comfortably keep your hand there for 10 seconds, the pavement is too hot for your dog. We recommend getting our Alcott Adventure Boots for your pet that will help protect the sensitive skin on their paws. These shoes are durable, long lasting, and do not slip off if they are fitted properly. We offer several versions and sizes to best suit your individual pups needs.

Consider more than just the temperature
Humidity, wind, sun, and shade can affect your dog’s ability to handle the heat. Take these factors into account when deciding whether or not to venture out. We offer cooling bandannas to assist in keeping your pet cool as a cucumber. Simply soak the lightweight fabric in cool water, ring out, and tie comfortably around your pets’ neck.

Know how heat affects your dog Older dogs, puppies, and overweight dogs overheat more easily. Breeds with short snouts, like Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Pugs, are more prone to heatstroke in hot weather. Also, be aware of your pup’s coat, as double-coated breeds (like Golden Retrievers) may overheat quicker than short-haired dogs (like Labrador Retrievers).Signs of heatstroke in dogs
Heat-related illnesses, like heatstroke, are almost always preventable. When the hot weather hits, it’s important to keep your dog cool. If your dog is outside on a hot day, be aware of some of signs of overheating: Fast panting, excessive drooling, bBright red or blue gums, weakness, vomiting.
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, call or take your dog to the vet as soon as you can and begin to slowly cool your dog down to avoid shock. Heatstroke is an emergency.

How to safely walk your dog on hot days
If you want to get in your daily walk with your dog, but the forecast calls for a hot day, consider some of these ways to protect your dog from the heat:
Walk early… or late – Avoid going for a walk when the day is at its hottest and opt for early morning or evening walks.
Plan and time your route – Take a shorter walks more often along a shady path or street to keep cool. To prevent paw damage, walk your dog on grass instead of hot pavement.
Dress appropriately – Dog boots and cooling vests can help keep your pup safe and cool in hot weather.
Take water with you – Bring a collapsible bowl and a water bottle along on your walk. If your pup is not a big fan of water, you can encourage them to stay hydrated by trying bone broths or goats’ milk.
Walk Alternative Activities – Does your dog like to swim? Swimming is a great summer exercise but can also strip your dog’s coat of natural oils they need for a healthy coat. In that case, we recommend bringing your pups into our self-wash and trying our all-natural shampoos and our gentle remoisturizer conditioner. You can also consider playing a game, like tug-of-war, inside the house and stay cool!

It’s Getting Warmer!

BIYD Staff — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 00:00:19 +0000

As winter fades away and warmer weather approaches,

As winter fades away and warmer weather approaches, it’s important to ensure the health and safety of our pets during this time. In this newsletter, we will be discussing some tips on how to take care of your furry friends during the warmer months. We also talk about welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home if you recently added a new furry friend to your family or are planning to.

Preventative Medicine
Fleas and ticks can pose a serious threat to your pet’s health, especially during the warmer months. Therefore, it’s important to have a flea and tick routine in place year-round, but particularly during this time. Our team recommends using preventative measures such as flea and tick collars, sprays ,or drops to keep your pets safe from these parasites. We recommend Tropiclean Flea & Tick soothing shampoo, Tropiclean home/yard spray, Tropiclean liquid drops or collar, and a good flea comb. Tropiclean is all natural, free from dyes and fragrances, and uses a combination of lemongrass, clove, cinnamon& cedar wood oils to kill and repel fleas, ticks, mosquitos, and any larvae and eggs. We have these Tropiclean products available in our stores.

Hydration
As the weather gets warmer, it’s natural to spend more time outside with your pet. However, it’s essential to ensure that your pet stays hydrated during these activities. We recommend supplementing their hydration by adding OpenFarm goats milk to their food, as it not only hydrates them but also provides important probiotics essential for healthy digestive health. We also offer travel water bottles and frozen yogurt treats to keep your pets hydrated and refreshed during these activities.

Allergies
Many pets suffer from seasonal allergies, which can lead to dry, flaky, and itchy skin. To help alleviate these symptoms, we offer a variety of solutions such as supplement powders, treats, and salmon oil, as well as special shampoos and conditioners in our self-wash area. Additionally, we now offer a pet intolerance test kit that can help you identify any potential food and environmental allergens your pet may have, and it costs a fraction of the price of the ones from a traditional veterinarian. If your pet is suffering ask us about the 5Strands Pet Intolerance Kit.

Welcoming a new puppy or kitten into your home?
This is always and exciting and rewarding experience. While it can be a lot of work, with some planning and preparation, you can make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible for both you and your new furry friend.

Before bringing your new pet home, it is important to make sure that your home is safe and secure for them. This means ensuring that any potentially hazardous items are out of reach, such as cleaning supplies, medications, and small objects that can be swallowed. Additionally, make sure that your home is properly set up with a comfortable bed, food and water dishes, and plenty of toys for then to play with and chew on!

It is also important to schedule a visit with a veterinarian as soon as possible to ensure that your new pet is healthy and up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations before venturing out into the world. Visiting with a vet is also a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about training and socialization.

When bringing your new pet home, it is important to establish a routine and stick to it as closely as possible. This includes feeding times, potty breaks, playtime, and training sessions. Consistency is key when it comes to training your new pet, so be patient and persistent as you help them learn the ropes of their new home.

Finally, be sure to give your pet plenty of love and attention. This includes lots of cuddles, playtime, and positive reenforcement as you bond with them and help them feel at home in their new environment. With time and patience, your new pet will become and integral part of your family, bringing joy and companionship for years to come.

Here is a checklist of items we recommend for a new puppy or kitten:
Nutrition All-natural food, natural treats and chews, digestive enzymes or pumpkin supplements, fish oil, water and food bowls

Training
Training treats and aids, a variety of toys, “No Chew” spray, pee pads / litter box and litter for kittens

Gear
Collar, leash, adjustable harness to grow into, I.D. tag, waste bags and a dispenser, bed(s)

Supplies
Shampoo and conditioner, brushes, tooth brush and toothpaste, nail trimmer and styptic powder, urine and waste cleaner spray, waste scooper / litter scoop
We hope these tips help you to keep your pets healthy and happy during the warmer months. As always, our team is here to help you and your pets in any way possible. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

-Bark If You’re Dirty® Team

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