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Summer Pet Safety Tips for Broward County Pet Owners

Hoof & Paw Team··6 min read

If you've lived in Broward County for more than one summer, you know that the heat here is serious. Temperatures regularly climb into the 90s, the humidity makes it feel hotter, and afternoon thunderstorms roll in without much warning. For pet owners in Plantation, Davie, Cooper City, Sunrise, and the surrounding areas, summer means adjusting how you care for your animals — sometimes significantly.


The Pavement Problem


One of the most overlooked summer hazards for dogs is hot pavement. Asphalt in direct South Florida sun can reach surface temperatures of 140°F or higher — hot enough to cause burns in under a minute. Before taking your dog for a walk, press the back of your hand firmly on the pavement for seven seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws.


Practical adjustments for summer walks in Broward:

  • Walk during early morning (before 9 a.m.) or after sunset
  • Stick to grass and shaded paths when possible
  • Consider protective booties for dogs who need midday walks
  • Keep walks shorter and watch for signs of overheating

    • Heat and Hydration


    Dogs and cats regulate heat differently than humans, and they can overheat quickly in Florida's climate.


    Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs

  • Excessive panting or drooling
  • Bright red gums
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Unsteady gait or collapse

    • Keeping Pets Cool

  • Always provide fresh, cool water — refill bowls multiple times a day in summer
  • Never leave pets in a parked car, even for a few minutes
  • Create shaded outdoor resting spots if your pet spends time outside
  • Consider a small kiddie pool for dogs that enjoy water
  • Freeze treats or broth cubes as enrichment and cooling

    • For horses in Southwest Ranches, summer heat requires extra vigilance. Make sure troughs are checked and refilled daily, shade structures are functional, and turnout schedules are adjusted to cooler parts of the day.


    Florida's Summer Wildlife Hazards


    South Florida summers bring out more than just heat. Broward County pet owners should also watch for:


  • **Toads**: Bufo (cane) toads are toxic to dogs and cats. They're most active at night and after rain. If your pet mouths a toad, rinse their mouth immediately with water and call your vet.
  • **Snakes**: Water moccasins and rattlesnakes are present in our area, especially near canals and wooded sections of Davie and Southwest Ranches.
  • **Mosquitoes and heartworm**: Summer rains create standing water and surge mosquito populations. Make sure your dog and cat are on year-round heartworm and flea prevention.
  • **Blue-green algae**: Certain canals and retention ponds in Broward can develop toxic algae blooms. Keep dogs out of standing water that looks green or foamy.

    • Hurricane Season Pet Preparedness


    Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November, overlapping almost entirely with South Florida's summer. Getting your pet's emergency plan in place before a storm forms is much easier than scrambling during a watch.


  • Keep a pet first aid kit stocked
  • Have at least two weeks of food, medications, and supplies in your go-bag
  • Make sure microchips are registered and tags are current
  • Identify pet-friendly hotels and shelters before you need one
  • Have a carrier for every pet in the household — including cats who "never need one"

    • We have a full post dedicated to hurricane prep for pets (including a go-bag checklist and shelter information) if you want to go deeper on this topic.


    How Sheryl Keeps Pets Safe All Summer


    During Broward's hottest months, Sheryl at Hoof & Paw adjusts walk schedules, monitors pets for heat stress, and keeps clients updated with photos so you know your animals are doing well even when you can't be there. If you're heading out of town this summer and want a trusted, local caregiver keeping an eye on your pets, give Sheryl a call at **(954) 807-1716**.

    Need Professional Pet Care?

    Call or text Sheryl to learn about services and schedule a visit.

    Call/Text Sheryl

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