As a leading pet clinic in Dubai, we get proper feedback from our lovely clients. So today we are here to share with you the story of our beloved client. We are all aware of the mid-June heat. The kind of day in Dubai where the heat doesn’t politely knock, it barges in, unapologetic, and settles into your bones. I was getting ready to take Bruno, my always-happy Labrador, for a “quick” walk. Sun blazing, concrete sizzling. It was 11:30 a.m. He wagged his tail excitedly. I didn’t think twice.
Ten minutes later, he was panting harder than I’d ever seen. His tongue was out so far, I thought it might touch the sidewalk. And he suddenly just sat down. Refused to move. Not because he was tired, but because he was overheating.
I carried him back. He was heavy, but adrenaline has a way of giving you superpowers when your pet’s in trouble. That incident changed how I treat summer for both of us.
The Truth About Dubai’s Heat and Pets
It is truly said that Dubai isn’t just warm in summer. It’s brutal. And while we hop into AC cars and buildings, all our pets can’t just turn down the thermostat.
In July and August, temperatures regularly reach 45°C (113°F). That’s the air. Surfaces like pavements can go beyond 65°C (149°F). It takes less than 60 seconds for those surfaces to burn your dog’s paws.
I didn’t know that until it happened. I was guilty of ignorance. But once you’ve seen a panting dog struggle to stay upright, you don’t make that mistake twice.
Signs of Heatstroke in Pets: What to Watch
Before Bruno’s scare, I thought heatstroke would be obvious, collapse, unconsciousness, something dramatic but I was wrong.
Here’s what I’ve since learned to look for:
Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs or Persian cats are even more at risk. Their short nasal passages mean less cooling with each breath.
Easy Changes That Save Lives
That summer, I became that pet parent, constantly alert and worried. Wanting the best for Bruno, I consulted Vets in the City. They were highly rated and incredibly helpful. After following their simple advice, Bruno has never had another issue.
As per their recommendation, I made the following changes:
1. Reschedule Everything
Walks now happen before sunrise or after sunset. No exceptions. I learned the “7-second rule” too: If I can’t keep the back of my hand on the ground for 7 seconds, we stay indoors.
2. Frozen Broth Cubes Are a Hit
Freeze low-sodium chicken broth into cubes. I toss one into his water bowl or offer it as a treat. He thinks it’s dessert. I know it’s hydration with a purpose.
3. Fan, Tiles, Shade, Repeat
I created a chill zone for him near the coolest room in the apartment. Big fan, blackout curtains, ceramic tile floor. He gravitated toward it naturally. Sometimes I even put a damp towel down for him to lie on.
4.Change the Toys, Not the Energy
Bruno used to burn off energy on long walks. Now, I rotate interactive toys indoors. Puzzle feeders, scent games, soft tug toys. It keeps him stimulated without needing to break a sweat.
Grooming: Less Isn’t Always Better
A mistake many make in summer is shaving their pet. I almost did. But I spoke to Vets in the City. Turns out, a pet’s coat helps regulate temperature. It’s like insulation, it protects them from the cold and heat.
So, now I brush him more often to remove loose undercoats but don’t go near clippers. And if your pet has exposed skin or a thin coat, always consult your vet about pet-safe sunscreen.
Diet and Water Intake Adjustments
I started giving Bruno more “wet” foods during peak summer. Nothing fancy, just a bit of cucumber here, some watermelon chunks (no seeds) there. Light meals and lots of small drinks during the day.
I also bought a collapsible bowl that hooks to my belt loop. Wherever we go, water comes too.
Travel and Cars: A Strict Rule
This one’s non-negotiable: never leave your pet in a parked car. Even with the windows cracked. Even for five minutes. The temperature can rise by 20°C (36°F) in that time. No errand is worth that risk.
If I’m running out, Bruno stays home unless the destination needs him.
Don’t Skip the Vet in Summer
When Bruno had his heat episode, we rushed to the Vets in the City clinic. They cooled him gradually, checked his vitals, and kept him under observation. It was scary, but they were calm and professional.
Since then, we’ve made routine summer checkups a habit. Not just shots but hydration status, heart health, and sometimes just peace of mind.
A neighbour recently asked for help finding the best vets in Dubai, someone who really gets how serious summer is. I pointed her to my go-to clinic and that is none other than Vets in the City. Her cat, too, had a heat scare. Thankfully, he’s fine now and my neighbour is really very happy with the service.
You Need a Vet Who Understands Summer
It’s not enough to Google “pet clinic in Dubai” and hope for the best. You need someone who knows the signs of dehydration, who checks gums before you even say a word, and who explains heat precautions like second nature.
Pet owners’ trust means not just reacting but preventing. The right clinic teaches you how to read your pet like a pro. That’s what made the difference for me.
Final Words from a Grateful Dog Owner
Bruno’s story could’ve gone another way. I still think about how close I came to losing him just because I didn’t know better.
Now, I prep for summer like I’m getting ready for a storm:
Summer in Dubai isn’t pet-friendly by default. But it can be manageable, even safe, if you take the right steps.
If you’re unsure whether your pet is summer proof, consult a pet clinic. Don’t wait. Don’t guess. It’s not worth the risk.
And if you’re looking for a clinic that takes both you and your pet seriously, through the heat, the stress, and the scares, Vets in the City is where I found real peace of mind.
