Extreme heat affects more than comfort. It can quickly become a health and safety risk for people, pets, and the communities we share. Heat also interacts with our environment-pavement, lack of shade, urban heat islands, poor air quality, and wildfire smoke can all increase risk for both humans and animals.
A few reminders during hot weather:
- Stay hydrated, take breaks, and avoid outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day when possible. Check on older adults, children, neighbors, outdoor workers, and anyone with health conditions that may increase heat risk.
- For pets, make sure they have fresh water, shade, and a cool place to rest. Avoid hot pavement, limit strenuous exercise, and never leave pets or children in parked cars.
- Pay attention to the environment around you. Shade, tree cover, safe cooling spaces, and air quality all matter. If air quality is poor or wildfire smoke is present, reduce outdoor activity for both people and pets.
Helpful vetted resources:
• CDC: About Heat and Your Health
• National Weather Service: HeatRisk
• AVMA: Warm Weather Pet Safety
• EPA: Heat Island Effect
• AirNow: When Smoke Is in the Air
• AirNow: Protect Your Pets from Wildfire Smoke
One Health reminds us that people, animals, and the environment are connected. What steps are you taking in your community or organization to help people and pets stay safe during extreme heat?
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T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Center for Pet Family Well-Being
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