News 40 Weather Reports: Every Degree Matters for Your Dog

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) – When the Kentucky sun is blazing, your dog may still wag their tail at the thought of a walk, but veterinarians say the heat can turn that happy trot into a serious health risk.

“Dogs don’t sweat like we do,” said Dr. Luke Griffith of Three Springs Animal Hospital in Bowling Green. “They mostly cool off by panting, and that’s just not enough on hot, humid days.”

While humans rely on sweat to cool our skin, dogs have only a few sweat glands, located in their paws. That leaves panting as their primary way to release heat. But in a region where thick humidity clings to the air like a wet blanket, panting doesn’t always cut it.

“If it’s 95 degrees outside and your dog’s body temperature is already 102, there’s not a lot of room to cool down,” Griffith explained. “It’s especially tough when the air is moist. They’re breathing in warm, wet air instead of cooling off.”

And the warning signs of overheating can come on fast: excessive panting, drooling, disorientation, even seizures. In severe cases, a dog can collapse from heatstroke, a life-threatening condition.

“If you see those signs, start cooling your dog immediately with cool water on their belly or armpits, and get them to a vet right away,” Griffith said.

Certain breeds are at even higher risk. Brachycephalic, or short-nosed dogs, like bulldogs, pugs, and boxers, often struggle to move air efficiently through their narrowed airways.

“They just can’t cool themselves as well,” said Griffith.

And here’s one mistake that could turn deadly: leaving a dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes.

“A pet’s normal temperature is about 100 degrees. At 107, organs start failing,” Griffith said. “Even with the windows cracked, a car heats up fast.”

Instead, Griffith recommends shifting walks to early mornings or late evenings, when the pavement and the air have cooled off. A quick hand-check on the sidewalk is a good rule of thumb, if it’s too hot for your palm, it’s too hot for their paws.

And remember, your dog isn’t likely to pump the brakes when it gets too warm.

“Dogs are so driven to please their humans,” Griffith said. “They’ll keep running, chasing, or playing just to make you happy. They don’t always know when to stop. By the time they do, it can be too late.”

Plenty of water, breaks in the shade, and limited time outside during peak heat hours are all part of a safe summer routine. Because while a dog may be man’s best friend, it’s up to us to return the favor, especially when the thermometer’s climbing.

For more information about Dr. Luke Griffith and Three Spring Animal Hospital, visit them on their Facebook or in-person at 442 Three Springs Road in Bowling Green.