June Heat Index Spikes and Considerations for Your Evening Walk 

Here in Charlotte, the summer heat can make it difficult, if not impossible, to go outside during the day. This creates a conundrum for our furry family members, especially those who cherish their daily walks. 

But do pet parents really need to skip those crucial walks in the evening or morning? Are there actually risks of dogs overheating in North Carolina in the summer? The team at Animal Medical Hospital and Urgent Care in Charlotte shares our best tips below.

How Hot is Too Hot for a Summer Evening Walk with Pets in NC?

In North Carolina, we don’t just have to worry about heat. We also have to keep humidity levels in mind. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the heat index, not just the outdoor temperature. The heat index combines both the temperature and the humidity levels to describe how hot it feels outside. 

Knowing Charlotte’s daily heat index is key for safe dog-walking. Dogs can’t sweat like humans can, which means a heat index (not just a temperature) of 85-90°F or higher can pose a risk for overheating. Especially for dogs with double-layered, extra-fluffy coats.  

Becoming used to checking the heat index will help keep your kitties, pups, and yourself safe from the risks of heat exhaustion. 

But you should also get acquainted with another metric: ground temperature. Pavements can stay hot long after the sun goes down. Hot asphalt can burn your pup’s paw pads. In Charlotte, hot pavement is especially risky for dogs going on evening walks, due to the way paved surfaces absorb and hold onto heat all day long. 

Tips for Beating Summer Heat for Pets in NC

Here’s the good thing: you don’t have to skip your walks altogether, even when days are muggy and hot. Usually, the heat index is lower in the early morning, after the period of extended darkness—aka, nighttime—has allowed the earth to cool off a bit. 

Make a plan to walk your pup early in the morning, or at night after it’s been dark for at least a few hours. Test the pavement by putting your hand on it for at least 5 to 7 seconds to test how warm it is. 

If possible, stay on grass or dirt trails, where heat can’t stay trapped all day, and the surface is naturally cooler for your four-legged friend’s tender paws. Always bring fresh water for your dog (and yourself) to drink, and consider keeping the walk short if the heat index is above 85-90°F. 

And always avoid leaving your pet in a parked car for any amount of time. 

Signs of Cat or Dog Overheating in North Carolina

Another key step in keeping your pet safe during the hot, North Carolina summers is to keep an eye out for signs of overheating. For both cats and dogs, symptoms of overheating can include: 

• Panting or drooling that seems excessive or that continues for several minutes after your pet enters a cool area, such as an air-conditioned home.
• Lethargy, weakness, or fatigue, especially in dogs or cats that are usually active and energetic. 
• Vomiting or diarrhea following outdoor activity, or that persists for more than a few hours.
• Gums that are bright red instead of the normal, pastel pink color of healthy gums.
• Collapse or any difficulty in standing or walking. 

Heatstroke can get serious very quickly, so if you notice any of these symptoms, call your nearest veterinarian. The skilled team at Animal Medical Hospital and Urgent Care in Charlotte is open for urgent care every day of the week from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

Please do not hesitate to call us at (704) 334-4684 or walk right in if your pet is experiencing heatstroke or another medical concern.