At Columbus Humane, our Humane Agents see firsthand how the summer heat and holiday celebrations can quickly turn dangerous for our four-legged neighbors. With July 4 just around the corner, we’re asking our community to take a few simple steps to protect pets from heat, fear, and potential harm.
Whether you're planning a cookout, heading out to watch fireworks, or just enjoying time in the sun—here’s how to keep pets safe and comfortable all summer long.
Beat the Heat
Short walks, early or late.
Avoid the midday sun and take your pets for walks early in the morning or later in the evening when the ground and air temperatures are cooler. Your pup’s paw pads can burn on the hot asphalt, so opt for walks on grass or dirt when possible.
Skip strenuous exercise.
Even active dogs should take it easy in the heat. Overexertion can lead to heatstroke, especially on humid days.
Heatstroke is an emergency.
Know the signs:
Excessive panting or difficulty breathing (does not slow down after 5-10 minutes)
Continuously stopping to rest, lay down or seek out shady areas
Stumbling
Vomiting or diarrhea
Stupor (a state of decreased responsiveness, e.g. not responding to their name or typical stimulus)
Collapse
Developing bright pink or red gums
Internal body temperature rising to 104 degrees or higher
If your pet shows any of these symptoms, move them to a cool area and seek emergency veterinary care immediately. High temperatures can lead to organ failure and death, if not treated immediately.
Emergency Veterinarians in Columbus:
MedVet Columbus
300 E. Wilson Bridge Rd. Worthington 43085
(614) 846-5800
MedVet Hilliard
5230 Renner Rd. Columbus 43228
(614) 870-0480
The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center
601 Vernon L. Tharp St, Columbus 43210
(614) 292-3551
The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center at Dublin
5020 Bradenton Ave., Dublin 43017
(614) 889-8070
Shelter is the Law
If your dog spends time outdoors, they must have shelter that includes four solid walls and a roof to protect them from sun, wind, and rain. Shade alone is not enough. Your pet must also have constant access to clean, drinkable water.
Wire crates are for indoor use only. They don’t provide the protection required by law and can become dangerously hot.
When in doubt—bring them in. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet. Indoors is always the safest and kindest place for them to be.
Columbus Humane continues to advocate for all dogs to live indoors, experience proper outdoor time and spend as much time as possible with their families.
Keep Pests Off Your Pets
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in the summer. These pests can cause anything from skin irritation to diseases like lyme disease and heartworm.
Prevent Lost Pets During Fireworks
Fourth of July fireworks can be terrifying for animals. Every year, we see an increase in lost pets during this time. Here’s how to keep your pets safe:
Bring them indoors before the fireworks begin.
Use collars with ID tags that include your current contact information.
Double-check your microchip info with your vet or chip company—it should have your up-to-date phone number and address.
If your pet goes missing:
If you’ve lost your pet, start looking immediately. Post flyers in the area where the animal was last seen. Make sure it’s easy to read, brief and large with an accurate picture and details about identifying markings along with your contact information.
If you lose your pet, post a report on petfbi.org
For lost dogs, contact Franklin County Animal Control
For lost cats and other pets, call Columbus Humane and surrounding shelters.
If you find a stray dog, bring them to the Franklin County Dog Shelter so their family has the best chance of finding them.
Create a Low-Stress Environment
Fireworks and pets are not a good mix. It's crucial to keep all pets indoors when fireworks are being set off, including glow sticks, sparklers, and bang snaps. Your home not only provides a buffer from the noise but also keeps your pets physically safe. If you're concerned about your pet being scared at home, consult your vet about medications or products to reduce stress. For more information about how to create a Fear Free environment for your pets, visit Fear Free Happy Homes.
Create a calm environment. Turn on music or the TV to help muffle the sound of fireworks. Set up a cozy “den” space where your pet can feel safe and secure.
Spend time with your pets. For many animals, the calming presence of their family can help reduce anxiety. Your companionship can be a powerful tool to help build their confidence during stressful situations.
Minimize flashing lights to reduce anxiety. Close curtains or blinds or move your pet to a room with limited exposure to outdoor lights and activity.
We know you love your pets like family—so do we. Let's work together to make this Fourth of July safe, cool, and comfortable for the animals who count on us.
From all of us at Columbus Humane: thank you for helping keep Columbus Humane.
To report animal cruelty, please file an online report here.
