Hot Weather Dog Walking Safety in Raleigh
Raleigh summers are hot and humid, and late spring and early fall can surprise you too. Here's how our walkers keep dogs safe in the heat — and how you can do the same.
Walk early or late
Schedule walks for the cooler parts of the day. We walk from 7 AM to 9 PM, so early-morning and evening slots are a great choice on hot days.
Check the pavement
Put the back of your hand on the asphalt or sidewalk for about seven seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paws. Stick to grass and shade, like the tree-covered paths at many Raleigh parks.
Shorten the walk
On the hottest days, swap a 60-minute walk for a 15 or 20-minute potty break plus indoor play. A shorter visit is better than a dangerous one.
Know who's at higher risk
- Flat-faced breeds (pugs, bulldogs, Frenchies, boxers)
- Senior dogs and puppies
- Overweight dogs
- Dogs with thick or dark coats
- Dogs with heart or breathing conditions
Signs of heat stress
Heavy panting, thick drool, bright red gums, stumbling, vomiting or extreme lethargy are warning signs. Move your dog into shade or AC, offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water and call your vet right away. Heatstroke is an emergency.
Hydration and gear
- Leave fresh water out and ask your walker to refill the bowl (you can add that note in our app).
- Never leave a dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
- Consider booties or a cooling vest for dogs who must walk on pavement.
Our walkers adjust routes and pace for the weather and note how your dog did in every report card. Sign up or read about our dog walking service.
FAQ
How hot is too hot to walk a dog?
There's no single number — humidity, sun, pavement and your dog's breed and age all matter. If the pavement is too hot for the back of your hand for seven seconds, keep walks short and stay on grass and shade, and ask your vet about your dog's limits.
What time should I walk my dog in summer in Raleigh?
Early morning and evening are usually coolest. We offer visits from 7 AM to 9 PM.