Caring for Senior Pets in the Summer: Comfort, Safety, and Joy for Our Aging Companions

Summer sunshine may be a favorite for many, but for our senior pets, it can pose extra challenges. At Pawsitive Dawg Walking and Pet Sitting, we care deeply for every animal we visit but we take extra steps to support our older companions during the hotter months. With thoughtful adjustments and personalized attention, we help senior pets stay cool, comfortable, and happy all summer long.

Understanding Heat Sensitivity in Senior Dogs and Cats

As pets age, their ability to regulate body temperature decreases. That means hot days can be more dangerous for them than for younger animals. Senior pets may have underlying health conditions like heart disease, arthritis, or kidney problems that are worsened by heat stress. Dogs with graying muzzles and cats who love their sunny windows may not show signs of overheating until it's advanced, which is why prevention is key.

During visits, we’re always watching for signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting, drooling, disorientation, or lethargy and we tailor our care and visits accordingly. If your senior pet needs a quick potty break instead of a long stroll, we’re on it. If the sun is blazing, we’ll shift to indoor enrichment instead of outdoor play.

Cooling Aids and Joint-Friendly Surfaces

Keeping seniors cool and physically supported is a big part of what we do during summer visits. We love using cooling mats, shaded rest areas, and even damp towels for pups who need a little extra help staying comfortable. We’ll happily check that your A/C or fans are on, refill fresh water bowls, or move your pet to a cooler part of the house if needed.

Older joints don’t love hot pavement, so we also make sure to stick to grassy areas or cooler times of day when walking senior dogs. If you have ramps, rugs, or orthopedic beds, we’ll make sure your pet is using them safely and comfortably. And if not, we’re happy to suggest simple home tweaks to make your senior pet’s life easier.

Adapting Exercise and Enrichment

Movement is still essential for senior pets, but it has to be done mindfully. During summer, we adjust the pace and length of walks, incorporate sniffing and decompression time, and offer gentle enrichment activities tailored to your pet’s needs. Whether it’s a shaded yard sniffari, a short game of scent work, or a relaxing grooming session, we help your pet stay active without overdoing it.

We also love offering training consultations to brainstorm safe, fun, and beneficial enrichment ideas, from puzzle feeders to slow-motion trick training, that keep aging pets mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled.

The Joy of Summer, at Every Age

With the right support, senior pets can enjoy summer just as much as the younger crowd with a few thoughtful adjustments. Whether it’s a cooling towel and slow stroll or a cozy cuddle session during the hottest part of the day, our team is committed to honoring each pet’s age, needs, and preferences.

Need help keeping your senior pet comfortable this summer? 

We’d love to assist during our visits or set up a custom training or enrichment consultation. Your older pet deserves a summer full of comfort, care, and love and we’re here to help make that happen.