At Aspen Veterinary Clinic, we love seeing animals enjoy the sunshine—but summer in Nevada brings intense heat, dry conditions, and other seasonal risks. Whether you care for household pets, horses, or managing livestock, preparation is key to keeping them safe.
We have created this all-in-one guide of summer safety tips to help you protect your animals—whether they bark, meow, neigh, or bleat.
Heat Safety for Dogs, Cats, Horses, and Livestock
Summer heat can affect any animal. Dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, and sheep all need extra care when temperatures rise. Here is how to help them stay cool and safe:
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times
- Offer shade and well-ventilated shelter in outdoor areas and barns
- Avoid activity during the hottest parts of the day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
- Walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset—test pavement heat with your hand
- Use cooling mats, fans, or frozen treats for pets, and misting or hose spray-downs for livestock
- Ensure barns and holding areas have proper airflow
At-risk animals include flat-faced dogs (like Bulldogs), overweight pets, young or senior livestock, and animals with heavy coats or light skin.
When Is It Too Hot?
If it feels uncomfortable to you, it is too hot for your animals too. Warning signs include:
- Panting or open-mouth breathing
- Lethargy or reluctance to move
- A heat index over 85°F
- Decreased appetite or milk production in livestock
Know the Signs of Overheating
Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency. Watch for:
- Rapid panting or excessive drooling
- Bright red or pale gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Staggering or collapse
Move the animal to a shaded area, offer small sips of water, and apply cool (not cold) water to their belly, paws, or underarms. Then contact Aspen Veterinary Clinic immediately.
Fun & Safe Summer Activities
Warm weather can still be enriching for animals with simple precautions.
For Dogs:
- Morning hikes on shaded trails
- Sprinkler or kiddie pool fun
- Frozen treat scavenger hunts
- Quiet outings to dog-friendly parks
- Backyard agility using cones or hula hoops
For Cats:
- Window views with a fan or frozen water bottle nearby
- Safe time in screened porches or enclosed patios
- Puzzle feeders and interactive toys
- Shady backyard lounging in a secure space
- Cooling mats in breezy, quiet spots indoors
For Livestock and Small Ruminants (horses, cattle, goats, sheep):
- Turnout during cooler times of day
- Mist or hose spray-downs as tolerated
- Proper ventilation in barns or shelters
- Occasional frozen produce treats (e.g., watermelon slices)
- Grooming to remove excess coat and dirt buildup
Summer Travel Tips for Pets
If you are hitting the road, pack a bag for your pet with:
- Up-to-date health and vaccination records
- Food, water, medications
- Collar with ID tags, leash, and/or secure carrier
- Favorite blanket or toy for comfort
- Schedule for regular breaks and hydration
NEVER leave pets in a parked car—temperatures can spike 20–30°F within minutes.
For more tips, visit AVMA’s Pet Safety in Vehicles.
Be Mindful of Toxic Plants
If your pets or livestock spend time outdoors, be aware of common toxic plants such as:
- Lilies (especially harmful to cats)
- Oleander
- Sago palm
- Foxglove
- Azaleas
- Hydrangea
Instead, choose animal-safe plants like zinnias, marigolds, snapdragons, or edible grasses. Always double-check before planting something new or bringing a new plant home.
Local Veterinary Support You Can Rely On
At Aspen Veterinary Clinic, we proudly care for dogs, cats, large animals, and small ruminants, including horses, cattle, goats, and sheep. Whether you are a pet owner, rancher, or hobby farmer, our team is here to support your animals’ health year-round.
Dr. Kathryn Moriarty, co-founder of Aspen Veterinary Clinic, is committed to helping families care for their cherished pets. With a strong background in dentistry, internal medicine, and surgery, she combines medical expertise with a genuine love for the client relationships she has built over the years.
Dr. Matt Barnes, a sixth-generation rancher and Nevada native, brings deep-rooted knowledge and passion to our large animal services. He is happy to see your horses, large animals, and small ruminants at the clinic—or visit your ranch for on-site care.
Call us today to schedule a wellness exam or ask about warm-weather care. Let us make this a safe and happy summer for all the animals in your life.