How to Keep Your Guide Dog Safe in Hot Weather

When summer temperatures rise, it is important to prioritize your guide dog’s health and safety. Unlike us, dogs do not sweat to cool off—they rely on panting and limited areas of sweat glands (primarily on their paw pads), which means they are much more susceptible to overheating. Whether you are running errands, heading to work, or attending a busy event, here are some practical tips, tricks, and key considerations to keep your guide safe when working in the heat.

Recognize the Signs of Heat Exposure

Dogs can suffer from heat exhaustion and heatstroke much faster than people, especially breeds we use as guides like Labs and Shepherds. Signs of overheating include:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Disorientation or stumbling
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Bright red or pale gums

If you notice any of these signs, stop what you are doing immediately and get your dog to a cooler location. After some time to cool down, offer small amounts of water, and contact a vet.

Surface Temperature Matters

Pavement, asphalt, and sand can reach dangerously hot temperatures in the sun—much hotter than the air temperature. To test the surface, place your hand or bare foot on the ground for a short period of time. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your guide dog’s paws! It is time to pull out your Ruffwear boots that you were issued in class. Make sure your guide is accustomed to wearing them in advance. It is a good idea to practice before the time comes when you may need them.

Timing is Everything

Ideally, you will plan your outings during the coolest parts of the day—early morning or later evening. Midday heat can be brutal, especially in places without much shade or green space. If your trip cannot be avoided, seek shady routes, try to minimize time on hot surfaces, and make plans for cooling breaks from guide work.

Hydration and Cooling

A collapsible bowl and a bottle of water in your bag can make a significant difference on a hot day. Dogs need more water in warm weather, especially when working. Avoid using public water bowls set out for pet dogs as you do not know how often they have been washed or the health of other dogs sharing them.PetMD recommends one fluid ounce of water per pound of body weight each day:

• A 50 lb dog should get about 50 oz (6¼ cups)
• An 80 lb dog may need up to 80 oz (10 cups)

Cooling gear like Ruffwear’s Swamp Cooler vest or a damp cooling towel placed over your dog during breaks can help regulate temperature. Never leave your guide in a hot car, even for a few minutes—temperatures can spike rapidly, even with windows cracked.

When Is It Too Hot to Work?

Every dog is different, but generally, if the air temperature exceeds 85°F (29°C) with high humidity, it is time to seriously assess the conditions. If the heat index is in the 90s or above, and if you cannot walk barefoot on the ground, it is not safe to work your dog outdoors. Consider using your white cane as a backup if conditions are unsafe for your guide dog.Remember: Your guide dog relies on you to make the call when conditions become unsafe.

Crowd Work in the Heat

Crowded environments can become even more intense in warm weather. Here are a few extra tips:

• Utilize early morning or late-day hours to navigate events like outdoor markets or festivals when it is cooler and less busy.
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• If the environment becomes overwhelming, for you or your dog, do not hesitate to step away for 10-15 minutes to regroup.
• Maintain solid communication with your guide using consistent leash cues, voice, and praise. Heat can affect focus, so shorter working intervals and more check ins can help keep your dog dialed in. Also, Keep in mind that some environments are not suitable for guide work.

Beaches and Pools

Out of the Water:

The same recommendations above apply to spending an extended amount of time with your guide at the beach or pool. When considering if it’s safe for your guide, take careful note of the following:

• Surface temperature of the sand or pool deck
• Air temperature
• Sun exposure and presence of umbrellas
• Access to fresh water
• Cleanliness of the area

Always keep a collapsible dog bowl and water on hand as a precaution.

As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid bringing your dog to the beach or pool if there is:

• No shade available
• High temperatures
• Excessive crowds and loud activities
• Limited space for the dog
• Trash on the ground

If you’d like to get in the water in a public space, you should never leave your dog unattended, as people can feed, tease, or harm your dog without your knowledge. Your guide may also react unfavorably to seeing you in the water. It’s best to leave them in a quiet, secure location to ensure their safety and well-being.

In the Water:

If you choose to take your dog with you into a body of water:

• Evaluate the water quality to ensure there are no toxic chemicals, algae, or high bacteria levels.
• Avoid stagnant ponds, and instead opt for clean lakes, calm rivers, or shallow ocean waves.
• Check the tides and currents.
• Do not venture far out from shore.
• If at a pool, ensure there is no liner the dog can puncture or get caught on, and that chlorine and/or salt levels are acceptable.
• Remove the harness to avoid water and/or salt damage to your equipment.
• Keep a firm grip on the leash.
• Be aware of your dog’s whereabouts at all times.
• Do not allow them to drink the water.
• Consistently evaluate their comfort level. Labradors and shepherds naturally enjoy the water and a chance to cool off, but some may be more sensitive than others.
• Not all guides know how to swim.
• Do not allow your dog to swim or play in the water unsupervised, even at a private residence.
• Rinse your dog thoroughly with fresh, clean water after any exposure to salt or chlorinated water to prevent damage to your guide’s skin or coat.
• Dry your guide thoroughly with a towel and groom them to avoid fur matting or hot spots from moisture.

Hot weather does not mean you have to press pause on getting out and about—but it does mean you need to plan ahead and adapt. Watch your guide closely, adjust your schedule when needed, and prioritize comfort and safety over convenience. With a little prep and awareness, you and your guide dog can enjoy a safe and active summer together.