Seasonal Dangers Guide
Select a month below to see the specific health hazards and dangers you need to be aware of to keep your dog safe all year round.
Hazards in August
Heatstroke
Critical RiskDogs cannot sweat like humans and overheat rapidly, which can be fatal in minutes.
What to look for
Excessive panting, drooling, red or pale gums, uncoordinated movement, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse.
Areas to avoid
Cars, conservatories, unshaded gardens, and hot pavements or beaches during the middle of the day.
How to prevent
Walk only early morning or late evening. Provide constant shade and water. NEVER leave a dog in a car.
Hot Pavements, Astro Turf & Sand
High RiskSurfaces retain heat and can easily cause severe burns to paw pads. Astro turf (artificial grass) in particular can get dangerously hot very quickly, often far exceeding the temperature of tarmac.
What to look for
Limping, refusing to walk, licking paws, and visibly blistered or red paw pads.
Areas to avoid
Astro turf, tarmac, concrete, and sand exposed to direct sunlight.
How to prevent
Use the 7-second test: if you can't hold the back of your hand on the surface for 7 seconds, it's too hot for paws. Keep dogs off astro turf entirely during hot days.
Blue-Green Algae
Critical RiskA toxic bacteria found in stagnant ponds and lakes during hot, dry weather. Highly fatal if ingested.
What to look for
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, disorientation, breathing difficulties, and seizures occurring very quickly after exposure.
Areas to avoid
Stagnant ponds, lakes, and slow-moving water, especially during hot, dry weather.
How to prevent
Do not let your dog swim in or drink from water that looks green, scummy, or smells bad. Wash them immediately if exposed.
Bee & Wasp Stings
High RiskDogs often snap at buzzing insects. Stings in the mouth or throat can cause dangerous swelling and block airways.
What to look for
Sudden yelping, localized swelling, pawing at the face or mouth, hives, and difficulty breathing if stung in the throat.
Areas to avoid
Gardens, orchards with fallen fruit, flowering plants, and around bins.
How to prevent
Discourage your dog from chasing insects. If stung in the mouth, seek immediate veterinary advice.
Harvest Mites
Moderate RiskTiny orange mites that swarm in late summer, causing intense itching and crusty skin, usually on the paws, legs, and tummy.
What to look for
Intense itching, biting at paws, red crusty skin, and visible tiny orange dots (mites) on the skin.
Areas to avoid
Long grass, chalky soil, and dense vegetation during late summer and early autumn.
How to prevent
Avoid walking in long vegetation during dry conditions. Consult your vet for appropriate treatments.
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