Summer 2026 brings sunshine, holidays, and often high temperatures. intense heat can cause problems for dogs, cats, and small animals, both in the city and while traveling. Here you will find a updated decalogue inspired by ENPA advice and practical pet-friendly tips for a peaceful life at home and while traveling, in line with the spirit of VacanzeAnimali.it.
Why heat is dangerous for dogs and cats
Dogs and cats do not sweat like us: to disperse heat they increase their breathing rate (they pant). This exposes them to heat stroke, a condition that can become an emergency in a matter of minutes. Shade, fresh water, and ventilated areas are the first line of defense.
ENPA Decalogue updated for summer 2026
- Shade, air and hydration: always ensure a shaded and ventilated place, fresh water available and light and digestible meals.
- Never drive alone: Never leave a pet in a car, even for a few minutes or with the windows ajar. Temperatures inside the car can quickly exceed 60–70°C.
- If you see an animal locked in a car: Find the owner and call 112 immediately. While you wait, create shade (newspapers or sheets on the windshield) and, if possible, pour water through an open window to wet the coat or give it a drink.
- Hyperthermia: what to do: if the animal is breathing heavily, staggering, has red gums or is apathetic, it's starting to cool down the body with cool (not freezing) water and apply wrapped ice pops/ice lollies Apply a cloth to the inner thighs, armpits, and chest. Never apply ice directly to the skin or immerse it in water.
- Walks in the cool hours: Go out at dawn or in the evening; the hot asphalt can burn your fingertips. Always carry a water bottle and bowl.
- Sun protection: Even animals get sunburned. Apply a high-SPF sunscreen to white extremities, ear tips, and hairless areas before going out. Avoid shearing.
- Small animals and aquariums: Never place cages or tanks in direct sunlight; ensure ventilation and change the water regularly to remove algae.
- Parasites and sandflies: use antiparasitics suitable for the species and size against fleas, ticks and sandflies (they transmit the leishmaniasis). In high-risk areas, discuss repellent collars and dedicated prevention with your veterinarian.
- Rabbits and small mammals: Check the coat every day for any fly eggs (myiasis), keep the litter box clean and the environment hygienic and ventilated.
- Wildlife in the city: Leave shallow water bowls on the ground and change them daily; create small shaded areas with plants. Avoid inappropriate foods such as bird bread.
Pet-friendly travel and transportation
By car:
- Air-condition the passenger compartment before setting off and use sunshades; plan to take breaks in the shade every 2 hours.
- Well-ventilated pet carrier or safety harness; never in a closed trunk.
- Keep water, a bowl, a cooling mat, and damp cloths available; avoid departures during the hottest hours of the day and routes with heavy traffic.
On the beach and outdoors
- Select dog friendly beaches and check the local ordinances on permitted times and areas.
- Bring shade, water, a shower, or a bottle to rinse off the salt; be careful of the hot sand and walkways.
Train, ship and plane
- Find out about the carrier's rules first: they are often needed leash, muzzle and documents (microchip, booklet, vaccinations).
- Book suitable spaces and reduce travel during the hottest hours; prefer carriages/air conditioning.
What to do if you find an animal locked in your car
- Call 112 and report the license plate and location; try to find the owner nearby.
- Create shade and, if possible, let water pass through any open windows.
- If the danger is serious and immediate, some intervene in state of need (Article 54 of the Criminal Code). Document the situation (photos/videos) and involve witnesses and law enforcement.
Important: the priority is the protection of life; act with caution and responsibility, waiting for help when possible.
Heatstroke: Signs and First Aid
- Signs: Shortness of breath, dark red tongue/gums, fainting, vomiting/diarrhea, high temperature.
- First aid: Move to the shade, gradually cool the area with cool water and damp cloths on the neck, armpits, chest, and inner thighs; offer small amounts of water.
After the first maneuvers, contact your vet immediately or go to the clinic: promptness makes the difference.
When to contact the vet
If symptoms don't resolve within a few minutes or if marked weakness, disorientation, vomiting, or convulsions appear, immediate veterinary assistance is required. Careful prevention and careful choices pet friendly During the holidays they reduce risks and make summer 2026 safer for everyone.
