by Cathy M. Rosenthal
Summer can be a joyful season for you and your pets—longer walks, lazy backyard afternoons, and more outdoor adventures. But with that sunshine comes heat, humidity, and bugs. It’s the season for itchy bites, sunburns, and overheated paws. And for our furry companions—especially those who lick themselves frequently—there are special precautions to keep in mind.
Let’s start with insect repellents. Many pet owners assume that if a repellent is safe for humans, it must be safe for pets. Not so. Products that contain DEET—a common ingredient in human bug sprays—can be toxic to dogs and cats, even in small amounts. If your dog licks a patch of skin where DEET was applied, they can experience vomiting, staggering, drooling, and even seizures. I always recommend avoiding DEET-based products around pets altogether—even on yourself—because many animals will lick your skin when greeting you or cuddling close.
Instead, look for insect repellents specifically labeled for dogs. These are formulated with ingredients considered safe for canine skin and licking behavior. You can also talk to your veterinarian about monthly flea and tick preventatives, which can help repel biting insects like mosquitoes and flies too. And if your dog is particularly sensitive or allergic to bug bites, you might even explore dog-safe natural sprays with essential oils like lemongrass or cedar—but always double-check with your vet first, especially if your pet is a heavy licker.
While we’re on the topic of licking and skin safety, let’s talk sunscreen. Yes, dogs can get sunburned—especially light-colored, short-haired, or hairless breeds, and especially on areas with little fur like the belly, ears, nose, and groin. And just like with insect repellent, never use human sunscreen on dogs, particularly those containing zinc oxide or salicylates, which are toxic when ingested. Instead, use pet-safe sunscreen labeled specifically for dogs (and again, never use on cats unless it’s cat-approved).
Apply sunscreen before outdoor adventures, especially if you’ll be at the beach or park for more than a few minutes. And reapply it every few hours, just as you would on yourself. Watch for signs of irritation or redness, and if your dog starts licking the sunscreen off, try redirecting them with a chew toy or frozen treat.
Finally, don’t forget that heat safety is as important as bug and sun safety. Dogs cool off differently than we do—mainly through panting and the pads of their feet—so they’re more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Here are a few summer basics to keep your pets safe:
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Walk early or late in the day when temperatures are lower.
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Check the pavement with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
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Always bring fresh water with you, and take breaks in the shade to give your dog time to rest.
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Never leave your pet in a parked car—not even for a minute. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures can rise to deadly levels in just a few minutes, putting your pet at risk of heatstroke or worse.
Summer is meant for memory-making, and with a bit of extra care, your pets can enjoy the season safely right alongside you. Stick to pet-safe products, monitor your pet’s behavior, and when in doubt, check with your veterinarian.
Here’s to a safe, sun-soaked, and itch-free summer for you and your four-legged friends.
