Even between rainy spells, the Philippines is hot. And while we can grab an iced coffee and duck into an air-conditioned mall, our dogs are walking barefoot on concrete in a fur coat.

Heat is one of the most common, and most preventable, dangers for city dogs.

Try the Seven-Second Test

Before every daytime walk, press the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you to hold it there, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Asphalt and concrete in the midday sun can be far hotter than the air temperature, and burnt paw pads are painful and slow to heal.

Walk at the Right Times

• Early morning, before about 8 AM, is usually best.
• Evening, after the sun has gone down and the pavement has cooled.
• Midday, keep it to a quick toilet break on grass or in the shade.

Choose shaded routes where you can. Tree-lined streets and parks are far cooler than open plazas.

Know Which Dogs Are Most at Risk

All dogs can overheat, but some are more vulnerable:

• Flat-faced breeds, who struggle to cool themselves by panting.
• Puppies and senior dogs.
• Overweight dogs.
• Dogs with thick double coats.
• Dark-coated dogs, who absorb more heat in the sun.

Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is an emergency. Watch for:

• Heavy, noisy panting that doesn’t settle.
• Bright red or very pale gums.
• Thick drool.
• Wobbling, weakness or collapse.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea.

If you see these signs, move your dog into the shade or an air-conditioned space, offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water and wet their body with cool water, especially the belly and paws. Then take them to your vet straight away, even if they seem to recover. Heatstroke can cause internal damage that isn’t visible at first.

Keep Training Going, Just Cooler

Hot days don’t mean no exercise. Short training sessions indoors, sniffing games and calm chews all tire a dog out without the risk. Our guide to rainy season walks has more indoor ideas that work just as well in the heat.

Always carry water on walks, and never leave your dog in a parked car, even for “just five minutes”.

If you’d like help planning a routine that fits city heat, Barry at Paw Nation BGC can help you find a balance that keeps your dog fit, calm and safe.

Raising a puppy? Our free “Your Puppy, Week by Week” newsletter walks you through it, one week at a time.