Vital Tips to Protect Dogs From Deadly Summer Heat

For Immediate Release:
June 23, 2025

Contact:
Sara Groves 202-483-7382

As temperatures soar in the U.S., PETA is issuing an alert to the dangers that heat poses to companion animals. Animals can quickly succumb to heatstroke if left outdoors or in a parked car. Last year, 111 dogs and cats reportedly died from heat-related causes. (The actual figure is likely far higher, as most deaths go unreported.) Breathing-impaired breeds (BIB) like pugs and French bulldogs are especially in danger, since their flat faces and restricted airways make them twice as likely to suffer from heatstroke as other breeds.

PETA urges people to be on the lookout for animals who are in need of assistance, including those who may be experiencing heatstroke symptoms, and advises everyone to do the following:

• Walk dogs during cooler parts of the day and limit their time outside in the heat. Before walks, touch the pavement to ensure it won’t burn dogs’ foot pads. In hot weather, walk only in the shade, on earth, or grass.
• Never leave animals outdoors in extreme heat or inside vehicles at any time.
• If you see a dog showing signs of heatstroke—including heavy panting, excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty walking, seizures, and collapse—ensure that the animal is moved into the shade or an air-conditioned space, offer them water, and wet them down with room-temperature (not cold) water. If their guardian isn’t around, call local authorities immediately.

Anyone who leaves animals outside to suffer in severe weather may be prosecuted for cruelty.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.