From Dr. Rivas

If I could sit down with each of you before summer fully settles in, this is what I would share.

Florida summers are beautiful, long days, afternoon storms, beach trips, family time. But for our pets, this season can also be one of the most physically stressful times of the year. Every summer, we see preventable emergencies that start with good intentions, “just a short walk,” “just a little time outside.”

So let’s talk about how to make summer safer and more comfortable for your pets.

Heat in Florida Is Different

It’s not just the temperature, it’s the humidity. Pets cool themselves by panting, and humidity makes that much harder. I often tell clients:

If it feels hot to you, it feels much hotter to them.

A few practical tips I recommend:

• Walk early in the morning or after sunset.
• Before a walk, gently wet your dog’s paws and belly with cool (not ice-cold) water to help with heat regulation.
• Carry water on every walk, even short ones.
• Keep walks shorter and less intense.
• If you can’t hold your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.

Short-nosed breeds, seniors, overweight pets, and pets with heart or respiratory disease need extra caution.

Water & Outdoor Adventures

Many Florida dogs love boating, paddleboarding, beach days, or pool time. That’s wonderful — but safety matters.

Not all dogs are strong swimmers, and fatigue happens quickly in heat.

I strongly recommend:

• A properly fitted life vest for boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, or open water activities.
• Close supervision around pools.
• Rinsing after saltwater or pool exposure.
• Thoroughly drying ears to prevent infections.

For dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially on boats or in bright sun, protective eyewear can also help prevent irritation from UV exposure, wind, and debris. We see eye inflammation more often than people realize during summer.

Parasites Thrive in Summer

Summer is peak season for:

• Mosquitoes (heartworm disease)
• Fleas
• Ticks
• Intestinal parasites

In Florida, prevention isn’t seasonal, it’s essential year-round. If you’re unsure whether your pet is fully protected, summer is a good time to review their prevention plan.

Storm Anxiety & Fear Free Support

Thunderstorms are frequent here, and many pets struggle with noise sensitivity.

You may notice:

• Trembling
• Hiding
• Pacing
• Attempting to escape

In our Fear Free approach, we don’t wait for panic to escalate — we prepare ahead of time.

That may include:

• Creating a safe, predictable space at home
• Using calming tools early
• Discussing supplements or prescription support before storm season peaks

Emotional wellbeing matters just as much as physical safety.

Identification & GPS Protection

Summer storms and fireworks increase the risk of pets getting spooked and running.

I always recommend:

• Updated ID tags
• A registered microchip with current contact information
• GPS tracking collars for dogs who are adventurous or reactive

A GPS tag can provide peace of mind in seconds.

Summer Gatherings & Hidden Risks

Barbecues and parties often mean:

• Fatty scraps (risk of pancreatitis)
• Corn cobs (common obstruction)
• Grapes and raisins
• Sugar-free products containing xylitol

Even the most well-behaved pet can get curious around guests and food.

My Final Thought

Summer should be enjoyed safely.

Our pets don’t always show discomfort clearly. They rely on us to anticipate risks they don’t understand. A few thoughtful adjustments, earlier walks, cooling support, life vests, eye protection, parasite prevention, emotional preparation, can prevent serious problems.

If you ever have questions about your pet’s summer plan, we’re here to help.

At Weston Road Animal Hospital, as the first Fear Free hospital in Weston, our commitment is simple:

Protect their health.

Protect their emotional wellbeing.

And help them enjoy every season safely.

Wishing you and your pets a healthy, happy Florida summer.

Dr. Miguel Rivas