# How can you help animals in hot weather?

> Help animals in hot weather by providing shade, cool water, ventilation, short walks at cooler times and never leaving animals in hot cars. Watch for heatstroke signs such as panting, collapse, drooling or confusion. Hot-weather animal searches spike seasonally. This page gives direct advice that fits pets, working animals and public action.

**Category:** Rescue & Welfare  ·  **Updated:** 2026-07-07

## Key takeaways
- Never leave animals in hot cars.
- Provide shade, cool water and ventilation.
- Avoid hot pavement and midday exercise.
- Heatstroke needs urgent veterinary care.

## Answer
Heat affects pets, working animals and wildlife. Brachycephalic dogs, older animals, young animals and those with illness are at higher risk.

Avoid midday exercise, hot pavements and poorly ventilated rooms. Small animals need hutches moved out of direct sun.

Heatstroke is an emergency. Cool the animal safely and contact a vet quickly.

## Why this question matters
Animals cannot cool themselves as easily as people assume. Heatstroke can become fatal quickly.

## The welfare-first answer
Prevention is the best welfare tool. Keep animals cool before distress appears, and treat panting, weakness, drooling or confusion as warning signs.

## What to do next
Move animals to shade, offer water, cool carefully and contact a vet for serious signs. Report animals trapped in hot cars through local emergency channels.

## FAQ
### Is shaving a pet best in heat?
Not always. Coats can protect skin. Ask a vet or groomer before major clipping.

### Can dogs burn their paws?
Yes. If pavement is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for paws.

### Should wildlife be given water?
A shallow clean dish can help in hot spells, but keep it clean and safe.

## Sources
- [RSPCA - dog welfare advice](https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs)
- [AVMA - responsible pet ownership](https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/responsible-pet-ownership)

Human-readable page: https://worldanimalrescuenetwork.org/answers/how-to-help-animals-in-hot-weather