Las Vegas summers aren’t just hot — they’re punishing. With temperatures regularly climbing into the triple digits, it’s not only people who suffer. For dogs, especially, the desert heat can be deadly. To help shine a light on the growing risks for pets and share practical steps owners can take to protect them, we sat down with Dr. Rowena de Joya, Lead Emergency Veterinarian at VEG Henderson, for a focused summer safety briefing.

Over the course of our conversation, Dr. de Joya helped outline the most common emergencies her clinic sees this time of year, how to recognize when your dog is in trouble, and what you can do now — before disaster strikes — to keep your pet safe. From walking tips to hydration habits, this is essential reading for any dog owner navigating summer in the Vegas Valley.

Heatstroke Is Fast and Life-Threatening — and It’s Already Happening

One of the most urgent takeaways from our discussion was just how quickly heatstroke can set in, and how often VEG is already seeing it. In the week leading up to our call, the Henderson location alone had treated five separate heatstroke cases. Many of these dogs were otherwise healthy — but in extreme heat, that often doesn’t matter. The signs typically start with excessive panting and drooling, followed by sudden lethargy, vomiting, and in severe cases, collapse. It can happen fast, and without immediate treatment, it can be fatal.

Some dogs are more vulnerable than others. Flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and English Bulldogs — often referred to as brachycephalic breeds — are at heightened risk because of their restricted airways. Dogs that are overweight or elderly also struggle more in high temperatures. The takeaway is simple but critical: even a short time in the wrong conditions can be too much, especially for dogs that fall into these higher-risk groups.

When to Walk, and Why Timing Is Everything

If you’re used to walking your dog after work or during the midday hours, summer in Las Vegas requires a complete rethink. Once temperatures reach 85°F, it’s already dangerous — not just because of the air temperature, but because of the pavement. Sidewalks and asphalt absorb heat rapidly and can easily reach scorching temperatures that burn paw pads within seconds. A helpful check recommended during the session is placing your hand on the pavement. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.

The safest time for outdoor activity is early in the morning, ideally before 8 AM. Once the sun is up and the desert begins to heat, risks increase quickly. Even if your dog seems eager, it’s up to you to set limits. Heat exhaustion can sneak up on them quickly, especially when they’re excited, stimulated, or distracted by their surroundings.

Cooling Gear Can Make a Difference — If Used Right

For pet owners determined to keep their dogs active through the summer, the right gear can help reduce risk. Cooling vests and jackets, which are designed to retain moisture and lower body temperature through evaporation, can provide some relief when used properly. Just be sure to soak them regularly and never use them as a substitute for shade, hydration, or time limits.

Paw protection is equally important. Booties can help shield dogs’ feet from scorching pavement and reflect heat away from sensitive pads. For dogs that won’t tolerate boots, applying paw balm before walks may offer a small barrier — though it won’t provide full protection on dangerously hot surfaces. Cooling mats can also be used at home or in shaded outdoor areas to give dogs a place to rest and cool down after exercise.

These tools can’t eliminate the dangers of desert heat, but they can help owners extend safe outdoor time slightly — as long as the other fundamentals are still in place.

Staying Hydrated and Cool (Without Overdoing It)

When it comes to hydration, access to cool, clean water should always be a top priority. During a heatwave, dogs may drink more than usual — and that’s normal — but sudden excessive drinking can also be a red flag for illness. Paying attention to changes in their usual habits can give you an early warning sign that something’s not quite right.

Cooling treats like frozen snacks or plain ice cubes can be both enjoyable and effective in helping dogs regulate their temperature. Many owners also wonder whether electrolytes are necessary. In most cases, they’re not — a healthy, balanced diet and adequate water intake are typically enough. But if your dog isn’t eating well due to the heat or has specific health needs, it’s worth checking in with your vet.

At home, it’s important to strike a balance when using air conditioning. You don’t want to overcool the space, especially for dogs with shorter coats or respiratory conditions. While AC is far better than fans alone — which don’t cool dogs the way they cool humans — some dogs may need a space where they can warm themselves back up after cooling down. Elevating beds, providing light airflow, and using cooling mats can help, but nothing replaces supervision and awareness.

Outdoor Events, Cars, and Unexpected Summer Risks

Las Vegas is full of dog-friendly events during the summer, but just because dogs are allowed doesn’t always mean they should attend. Outdoor markets, patio events, and gatherings are typically scheduled during the hottest parts of the day — often between 3 PM and 6 PM, when temperatures peak. If you do bring your dog, you’ll need to supervise them closely. Crowds can be overwhelming, and discarded food, hot surfaces, or unfamiliar dogs can turn a fun outing into an emergency. A full-body harness is a safer and more secure option than a collar in these situations.

One serious threat that often goes overlooked is rattlesnake activity, especially if you’re taking your dog on a desert hike. While there is no FDA-approved rattlesnake vaccine for humans, there is one approved for dogs, and it’s worth considering if your pet regularly explores desert areas. Vaccinated or not, dogs should always be kept on-leash during hikes and away from tall brush or rocky outcrops where snakes may be hiding. VEG Henderson has already seen rattlesnake bite cases this season — a stark reminder that even casual outings can come with hidden dangers.

And of course, the biggest and most tragic mistake some pet owners make: leaving their dog in a parked car. Even with the windows cracked or parked in the shade, interior temperatures can soar to lethal levels in just minutes. It remains one of the most common — and preventable — summer emergencies in the Vegas Valley.

When to Get Help (And What Not to Do at Home)

If your dog shows signs of heatstroke, don’t try to cool them at home with cold water or ice. It might seem like the right instinct, but rapid cooling without medical guidance can actually make things worse. Instead, get to an emergency vet immediately. On the way, you can lightly dampen your dog with room-temperature water and make sure the car is cool, but leave the more advanced care to professionals who can monitor and stabilize your dog safely.

VEG Henderson is open 24/7 for emergencies like these. While they don’t take direct payment from pet insurance providers, they do offer detailed receipts that can be submitted for reimbursement. If you’re unsure whether what your dog is experiencing counts as an emergency, you can also call ahead — VEG offers phone consultations and will let you know whether it’s better to come in or monitor at home.

Infectious Diseases and Seasonal Spikes in Illness

Heat isn’t the only danger that increases in the summer. Dr. de Joya also noted a seasonal uptick in certain contagious diseases. Parvovirus, in particular, tends to spread more during warmer months and can be life-threatening for puppies or unvaccinated dogs. VEG is also seeing more cases of kennel cough and other respiratory infections due to increased boarding, daycare visits, and dog-to-dog contact at parks and events.

Making sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date is one of the easiest ways to protect them from these risks. If you plan to travel, board your dog, or attend group events, talk to your vet about the best preventive care plan for the season.

What Dr. de Joya Hopes Every Dog Owner Will Remember

While there were many practical tips and insights shared throughout our conversation, one message came through loud and clear: heat-related emergencies are almost always preventable. But prevention only works if owners stay informed, pay attention, and take heat seriously. Knowing the early signs of heat exhaustion, keeping walks short and well-timed, using cooling gear responsibly, and never hesitating to call a vet can mean the difference between life and death for your dog this summer.

With a little planning and a lot of awareness, dogs can still enjoy Vegas summers — safely. But when in doubt, play it safe, stay indoors, and keep VEG’s number handy. Their doors are open 24/7, with two locations in Nevada — Las Vegas and Henderson — but the hope is that with the right precautions, you’ll never have to walk through them.