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As summer temperatures rise, a Kansas State University veterinarian is reminding pet owners to take extra steps to keep their pets safe and healthy during the warmer months.

Dr. Susan Nelson recommends year-round protection against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, which become more active in summer. These pests can transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease, Plague, and heartworm—potentially fatal if untreated. Many heartworm preventives also protect against fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites.

To help pets enjoy the season safely, Nelson offers the following tips:

• Ease into activity: If your dog hasn’t been active, start exercise gradually to avoid injury. Watch for signs of heat stress, including heavy panting, drooling, weakness, or collapse.
• Never leave pets in cars: Even in mild weather, vehicle interiors can quickly become deadly hot.
• Protect paws: Pavement can burn sensitive feet. Introduce rough surfaces slowly or use booties or paw balms.
• Water safety: Keep pools gated and use life jackets during boating trips. Nelson also recommends vaccinating pets against Leptospirosis, a waterborne bacterial disease that increases with rainfall.
• Keep identification updated: Collars, tags, and microchips greatly improve the chances of reuniting with a lost pet—even indoor ones.

Outdoor time also increases exposure to allergens, toxins, and irritants like grass awns or chiggers, which can cause infections or allergic reactions.

Nelson also emphasizes the importance of fresh food, clean water, and constant access to shade. Spoiled food attracts insects, and water bowls can dry out quickly in the heat. Check your yard often to ensure pets can always escape the sun. For more on summer pet care and year-round protection, consult your local veterinarian.