Over 48 million American households include a dog; approximately 32 million include a cat. Many of these canine and feline companions spend at least part of their time outside, enjoying fresh air and sunshine. However, with Arizona temperatures often ranging from 105 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, the great outdoors can become too hot for them. Therefore, consider installing a sun shade or other means of protection in your backyard to keep them safe.

What Are the Dangers of Overheating?

Cats and dogs pant to cool down. However, this temperature-regulating method can lead to dehydration or heat stroke if they spend too long under the hot sun. 

Symptoms of heat illnesses include excessive panting, increased heart rate, red or pale gums, salivating, and restlessness. This condition can become fatal if the animal's body temperature doesn’t decrease.

Cats and dogs that have lighter fur are more likely to sunburn as UV rays can penetrate their hair and make the skin pink, red, and painful. Animals who are sunburned have an increased likelihood of experiencing other heat-related illnesses. 

How Can You Protect Your Pets?

Keep cats and dogs indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the hottest part of the summer to lower their sun exposure and minimize the risk of sunburn. Especially avoid physical activities like going for a run or playing fetch until the temperature is lower.

If they need to go out during this period, encourage them to go to the bathroom and then quickly return to a shady area to lower their body temperatures.

If you do let them play on their own in a fenced-in yard, provide cool places for them to rest, such as a dog house or under a sun shade. Make sure they always have water available—in a place also kept out of the sun so that it doesn’t evaporate. 

If you want to prevent your family—furry family members included—from overheating this summer, have the contactors at River Valley Awning in Mohave County, AZ, install a sun shade over your patio. The locally-owned and -operated team has been in business since 1985, installing high-quality awnings of all sizes. Call the Tri-state area company at (928) 763-1800 with questions or to schedule an appointment. Visit the website for more information on their other offerings.