Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

LAS VEGAS (Aug. 18, 2026) — This week’s extreme heat can turn the most routine parts of a pet owner’s day dangerous within minutes. A short walk around the block, a few minutes in the backyard or a quick stop at the store can put a pet in serious distress before an owner realizes anything is wrong. The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is urging pet owners to rethink those routines this week as temperatures climb across the Las Vegas area.

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the Las Vegas area from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 8 p.m. Friday. While many people know to expect dangerous heat, the greater risk for pets is often hidden inside habits that feel harmless.

“Pets rely on us to recognize when conditions are unsafe because they can’t protect themselves from extreme heat,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Walking your dog earlier in the day, checking the pavement before heading out and leaving pets at home while running errands are simple changes that can help protect them when temperatures are this high.”

The Hidden Risks in an Ordinary Day
Pets can’t tell us when the heat is becoming too much, and the danger often builds faster than owners expect. A few common situations carry outsized risk:

• Hot pavement. Asphalt and concrete can become dangerously hot, burning sensitive paw pads within seconds. Pets are also much closer to the heat radiating from the ground. Before a walk, place the back of your hand on the pavement. If it’s too hot to comfortably keep it there, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
• Parked vehicles. The “I’ll only be a minute” errand is one of the most dangerous myths. Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly and quickly reach deadly levels, even with a window cracked or the vehicle parked in partial shade. There is no safe amount of time to leave a pet in a vehicle during extreme heat.
• Routine walks. A normal walk can become too much during extreme heat. Walk dogs during the coolest parts of the day, keep outings shorter than usual and bring water. Watch for heavy panting, slowing down or reluctance to continue.
• Backyard time. A fenced yard does not protect a pet from extreme heat. Limit time outside, make sure pets have access to fresh, cool water and shade, and bring them indoors before they begin showing signs of heat stress.
• Higher-risk pets. Short-nosed breeds, older animals, overweight pets and those with thick coats or heart or respiratory problems can have more difficulty regulating body temperature and may develop heat-related illnesses more quickly.

Know the Signs of Heat Stroke and What To Do
Heat stroke can quickly become a medical emergency for pets. Warning signs include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, very red gums, increased drooling or salivation, vomiting or diarrhea, weakness or collapse. If a pet shows signs of heat stroke, move the animal out of the heat immediately, begin cooling with cool water or water-soaked towels and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Pet owners can use the free American Red Cross Pet First Aid app to access step-by-step guidance for heat-related emergencies. The app includes first aid instructions, information on warning signs that require veterinary care and an animal hospital locator to help find emergency care nearby.

Download the free American Red Cross Pet First Aid App by searching “American Red Cross” in the App Store or Google Play, texting GETPET to 90999 or visiting redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.