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