10 Must-Know Pet Safety Tips for Surviving Alabama Summers

Help your pets beat the heat with these expert-approved tips, backed by local HVAC insights from Childress Heating & Cooling.

The Alabama summer brings intense heat that can put your pets at risk, making these pet safety tips more important than ever. While most people can retreat into air-conditioned homes or adjust their routines, our pets depend entirely on us to protect them from the dangers of heat.

At Childress Heating & Cooling, we believe that a safe, comfortable home benefits every family member, including the furry ones. With years of experience serving homes in Southside, Gadsden, and beyond, we’ve seen how extreme temperatures affect indoor comfort. That’s why we’re sharing these 10 lifesaving pet safety tips to keep your beloved animals happy and healthy all summer long.

1. Keep Their Water Fresh—and Keep It Coming

Hydration is the number one way to keep pets safe in hot weather. In the Alabama heat, pets can lose moisture quickly through panting, drooling, and even mild activity. Make sure fresh, clean water is always available.

Refill water bowls frequently, and don’t leave them in direct sunlight. If your pet stays outside for any period, consider using multiple water bowls in shady spots. A pet water fountain indoors is also a great way to keep water cool and appealing. Adding a few ice cubes can help too, especially during peak hours.

2. Avoid Walks During the Hottest Part of the Day

Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Alabama streets and sidewalks heat up fast, often to dangerous levels for pets. During Alabama’s summer season, try walking your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.

A simple test is to touch the pavement with the back of your hand for five seconds. If it’s too hot for your skin, it’s far too hot for your pet’s paws. Walking on grass or shaded trails is always safer during summer.

3. Don’t Leave Pets in Parked Cars—Ever

This cannot be stressed enough: even “just a few minutes” in a parked car can be fatal. The interior temperature can skyrocket within moments, reaching over 120°F on a typical Alabama summer day.

Even with the windows cracked, a car can become a death trap. If you can’t bring your pet inside with you, it’s always better to leave them at home in a cool, air-conditioned room.

4. Recognize the Early Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke in pets can escalate quickly and become fatal if not addressed immediately. Unlike people, pets can’t sweat through their skin, they release heat by panting and through limited sweat glands in their paws.

Watch for these warning signs:

Rapid or excessive panting
Thick drool or foam
Bright red tongue or gums
Vomiting or diarrhea
Lethargy, wobbling, or collapse

If your pet shows any of these symptoms, move them to a cooler area immediately, offer small sips of water, and contact your veterinarian.

5. Grooming Helps—but Don’t Shave

Proper grooming keeps your pet cool, but shaving them down to the skin can do more harm than good. Their coats often serve as natural insulation, helping to regulate temperature and block UV rays.

Brushing your pet regularly helps remove excess fur, improves airflow, and reduces matting. If you do trim their coat, leave at least an inch of fur to protect them from sunburn.

6. Create Shade and Ventilation Outdoors

If your pets spend any time outdoors during the Alabama summer season, they need proper shade and airflow to avoid heatstroke. A tree, covered patio, or tarp provides decent coverage, but airflow is key.

Stuffy doghouses or closed shelters can trap heat and make things worse. Opt for a well-ventilated structure with raised flooring if your pet needs a designated outdoor space. A kiddie pool filled with cool water can also be a fun way for dogs to cool off.

7. Make Cooling Treats Part of Their Routine

Chilled snacks are not only fun, they can be lifesavers. Freeze pet-safe ingredients like unsalted broth, peanut butter, or banana slices for a delicious way to cool off. Some pet stores even carry dog-friendly ice creams or “pup-sicles.”

If you’re unsure what ingredients are safe for your pet, check with your vet before offering any homemade snacks.

8. Protect Pets from Sunburn

It may surprise some owners, but pets, especially those with short fur, pink skin, or white coats, can get sunburned just like humans.

Use only pet-safe sunscreen and apply it to sensitive areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Avoid products designed for humans, as many contain zinc oxide or other chemicals toxic to animals.

9. Cut Back on High-Energy Activities

While fetch and playtime are great for bonding, summer is not the season to go all-out, especially during mid-day. Pets with short snouts (like Bulldogs and Pugs), older animals, and overweight pets are more prone to overheating.

Instead, play short games indoors or schedule several shorter walks throughout the day. Use toys, puzzle feeders, or indoor agility equipment to keep them mentally and physically active without risking overheating.

10. Keep Your Home’s Cooling System Running Efficiently

The most effective way to keep your pets comfortable? A cool home. If your air conditioner is struggling to keep up with Alabama’s heat, it could spell trouble—not just for you, but for your pets, too.

Pets left at home while you’re at work are completely dependent on your HVAC system to stay cool. Make sure your filters are clean, air vents are unobstructed, and your thermostat is set to a safe temperature, ideally between 72°F and 78°F.

Why Regular HVAC Maintenance Is Crucial for Pet Owners

At Childress Heating & Cooling, we recommend a seasonal tune-up before the worst heat arrives. Our certified technicians inspect and clean your AC unit, check refrigerant levels, and ensure your system runs at peak performance, giving you peace of mind and your pets a safe environment.

If your AC is making odd noises, blowing warm air, or failing to cool evenly, do not wait. A small fix today can prevent a major breakdown tomorrow, especially when your pet’s comfort is on the line.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best indoor temperature for pets during summer?
A: Between 72°F and 78°F is generally comfortable. For long-haired or senior pets, stick closer to 72°F.

Q: Can I leave a fan on for my pet?
A: Yes, fans help circulate air but may not be enough in extreme heat. Always use fans in combination with proper AC or shade.

Q: My pet has a thick coat—should I shave it?
A: Not completely. Trim to a manageable length, but never shave to the skin. Their coat protects against sunburn and heat.

Q: What should I do if my pet shows signs of overheating?
A: Move them to a cool area, wet their body with lukewarm (not cold) water, offer small amounts of water, and contact your vet ASAP.

Contact Us for Professional Summer HVAC Maintenance

Childress Heating & Cooling is your local American Standard Customer Care dealer, proudly serving Southside, Gadsden, and the Etowah County communities for over 20 years. We understand the importance of a comfortable environment for every family member, including your pets. If you’re concerned about your home’s cooling efficiency or need maintenance services, we’re here to help, please contact us at 256-312-1893 or visit our website. We’re honored to be our community’s #1 choice for heating and cooling solutions.

Facebook: Childress HVAC
Instagram: @childresshvac

pet safety tips for Alabama summers pet safety tips for Alabama summers pet safety tips for Alabama summers how to keep pets cool in summer