The AVMA Offers Advice for Keeping Pets Safe during Natural Disasters and Severe Summer Weather Conditions
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With forecasters predicting sweltering temperatures and an above-average hurricane and tornado season across much of the country, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is urging pet owners to take steps now to protect their animals. AVMA President Dr. Sandra Faeh is offering expert advice to help ensure pets stay safe and healthy through the challenges of summer weather.
"Summer weather provides a variety of hazardous conditions for indoor and outdoor pets alike," said Faeh. "There are preventive steps and actions you can take to help keep your pets safe."
When severe weather is forecast:
- Create an evacuation plan, including how pets will be transported, mapped out in advance.
- Connect with family and friends to determine places to go and means of travel.
- Assemble an evacuation kit including several days' pet food, medications, a first aid kit, and medical records with veterinarian information.
- Make sure your pet has proper and up-to-date ID tags and a microchip, in case you get separated.
- Contact your veterinarian for advice on how to keep your pet calm during weather emergencies.
In the sizzling heat of summer:
- Walk your dog early in the morning and/or later in the evening.
- Make sure to bring plenty of water with you.
- Stay on grassy areas with shade whenever possible.
- Be mindful not to leave your dog outside longer than necessary – even if they want to stay outside in the sun.
- Keep the air conditioning on indoors.
- If a pet has light skin or thin fur, apply some pet-safe sunscreen.
- Always watch a pet in a pool, and use a life vest in deep water.
- Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet shows signs of heat stress, which include excessive panting or drooling, increased heart rate, pale gums, lethargy, fever, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
Log on to www.avma.org for more valuable information about pets, summer heat, and disaster preparedness planning.
About the AVMA
The AVMA is the nation's leading representative of the veterinary profession, speaking for more than 108,000 member veterinarians across the United States who care passionately about protecting animal health, animal welfare and human health. Informed by its members' unique scientific training and knowledge, the AVMA advocates for policies that advance the practice of veterinary medicine and support the crucial work of veterinarians nationwide.
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SOURCE American Veterinary Medical Association