Travel Tips for Dogs in the Summer Heat

by | May 23, 2025 | Uncategorized

Travel Tips for Dogs in the Summer Heat

There’s nothing quite like a summer road trip with your dog—windows down, music up, and your furry best friend by your side. But traveling with dogs during the hotter months comes with unique challenges. Heatstroke, dehydration, and stress are real risks if you’re not prepared.

In this blog, we’ll cover practical travel tips to keep your dog cool, comfortable, and safe on the road or in the air during summertime.

Travel Tips for Dogs in the Summer Heat

1. Prep Before You Go

Proper planning makes all the difference. Before you leave, take these steps:

  • Vet Check: Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite prevention.

  • ID Tags: Confirm your pup’s tags and microchip information are accurate.

  • Pack a Dog Travel Bag: Include fresh water, bowls, food, treats, medications, poop bags, and a favorite toy or blanket.

2. Never Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car

Even on a 70°F day, the inside of a parked car can soar to over 100°F within minutes—even with the windows cracked.

  • Rule of thumb: If you can’t bring your dog with you, leave them at home or travel with a human buddy who can stay in the car.

  • Use sunshades and AC: If your dog must stay in the vehicle briefly, leave the air conditioning running and check on them constantly (ideally with remote start or a pet monitor).

3. Time Your Travel Wisely

Avoid driving during the hottest part of the day. Instead, plan to travel:

  • Early in the morning

  • Late in the evening

  • On cloudy or mild weather days when possible

Frequent breaks allow your dog to stretch, hydrate, and cool off.

4. Hydration Is Key

Just like humans, dogs can get dehydrated quickly in the heat.

  • Bring extra water: Always keep a full jug of fresh water in your car.

  • Offer water regularly: Every 30–60 minutes on the road.

  • Use travel bowls or portable water bottles with built-in dispensers.

Look out for signs of dehydration: dry nose, sunken eyes, sluggishness, and sticky gums.

5. Create a Cool Travel Space

Your dog’s travel zone should be cool, safe, and comfortable.

  • Crate or harness: Use a crash-tested crate or seatbelt harness for safety.

  • Ventilation: Make sure air vents are open toward your dog or use portable fans.

  • Cooling pads: These help keep your pup’s body temperature down.

  • Window shades: Protect your dog from direct sun and reduce heat buildup.

Travel Tips for Dogs in the Summer Heat

6. Choose Dog-Friendly Accommodations

Call ahead to ensure your hotel, rental, or campground welcomes dogs—and that they offer cool spaces during the day.

Pro tips:

  • Look for places with shaded outdoor areas or dog parks.

  • Ask about pet policies and any additional fees.

Apps like BringFido or Airbnb filters can make finding these spots easier.

7. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Summer travel can sneakily lead to overheating. Know what to watch for:

Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs:

  • Excessive panting or drooling

  • Lethargy or confusion

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Bright red or pale gums

  • Collapsing

What to do:

  • Move your dog to shade or AC immediately.

  • Offer cool (not cold) water.

  • Wet their paws, belly, and ears with a damp cloth.

  • Seek emergency vet care if symptoms persist.

8. Flying with Dogs in Summer

If flying, be extra cautious during summer months:

  • Avoid cargo travel: Heat in the cargo hold can be deadly. Opt for in-cabin travel if possible.

  • Choose direct flights: Reduces the risk of layover delays in hot tarmacs.

  • Fly during cooler times: Early morning or late night is ideal.

  • Talk to your vet: Especially if your dog is older, has health conditions, or is brachycephalic (short-nosed breeds like pugs or bulldogs).

9. Cool Treats on the Go

Bring along frozen treats or make your own ahead of time:

  • Frozen broth cubes

  • Chilled peanut butter in a Kong

  • Portable dog-friendly popsicles

These treats keep your pup engaged and help regulate their temperature during stops.

10. Dog Etiquette on the Road

Being a responsible traveler makes the journey smoother for everyone:

  • Pick up after your dog—every time.

  • Use a leash and obey local rules.

  • Be courteous to others when stopping at rest areas or attractions.

Travel Tips for Dogs in the Summer Heat

Final Thoughts

Summer adventures with your dog can create lifelong memories—but it’s up to you to make them safe. With thoughtful planning and some cool travel hacks, you’ll keep your pup happy and healthy all season long.