Summer Anxiety in Pets

At Twin Pines Veterinary Clinic, your trusted pet clinic and veterinary clinic in Askov, MN, we know summer isn’t just about sunshine and long walks. It can also be a season of hidden stress for your furry friend. Whether it’s the sweltering heat, fireworks booming in the distance, or disruptions to routine, many pets show signs of summer anxiety—and one of the clearest signs is pacing.

If your pup seems unable to settle, or your feline friend keeps circling the house without purpose, it’s worth paying attention. These are behaviors we veterinarians take seriously, because anxiety can quickly lead to bigger issues if left unchecked. If you’ve found yourself typing “vet near me” out of concern over your pet’s restlessness, you’re not alone. Let’s explore the causes of summer anxiety and how you can help your four-legged buddy find calm again.

Why Summer Triggers Restlessness in Pets

Heat Discomfort and Overheating

As temperatures rise, pets often find it difficult to cool themselves. Unlike humans, dogs and cats can’t sweat efficiently. Panting and their paws’ limited sweat glands are their primary means of regulating body temperature. The result? Uncomfortable, fidgety behavior. Your canine buddy might pace back and forth looking for a cooler spot, while your kitty may dart from room to room avoiding sunny windows.

Fireworks and Loud Noises

Summer holidays like the Fourth of July or local events often involve fireworks, parades, or parties. These sudden loud sounds can trigger a panic response, especially in dogs. Pacing is a natural outlet for this stress—your pup may try to “escape” the noise by moving constantly, even indoors.

Disrupted Routine and Environment

Pets thrive on predictability. They often get stressed by changes to their routine and environment. Visitors, kids home from school, travel plans, or changes to feeding and walk times can all contribute to emotional unrest. When their routine is tossed out the window, they may develop pacing habits as a sign of unease.

Common Signs of Summer Anxiety

In addition to pacing, pets may show:

• Excessive panting
  
• Hiding or clinginess
  
• Uncharacteristic whining, barking, or yowling
  
• Restlessness at night
  
• Destructive behavior
  
• House soiling in previously trained pets
  

If your four-legged friend starts showing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to check in with your local veterinarian.

What You Can Do to Help Calm the Restlessness

Offer a Quiet, Cool Space

Provide your pet with a safe zone away from noise and heat. This might be a bedroom with blackout curtains and a fan, a crate covered with a light blanket, or a shaded nook with cozy bedding. Add in your pet’s favorite toy or a piece of your worn clothing for comfort. Make sure they have fresh water!

Exercise

Make sure that your pet is getting enough activity. That can go a long way!

Keep Hydration Levels High

Dehydration can heighten anxiety and discomfort. Make sure water is always available, and consider adding low-sodium broth ice cubes or frozen treats to keep your furry pal interested.

Stick to a Routine When Possible

Consistency builds trust and helps reduce stress. Feed, walk, and play at roughly the same times each day. If your schedule must change, try to maintain a few consistent anchors like bedtime or a morning potty break.

Try Calming Tools

From pheromone diffusers and calming collars to compression shirts and white noise machines, there are many products designed to help anxious pets. Talk to your veterinarian before trying supplements or over-the-counter aids.

Redirect With Mental Stimulation

Sometimes the best way to beat pacing is to offer a positive outlet. Try:

• Food puzzles or treat-dispensing toys
  
• Short indoor training sessions
  
• “Find it” games using their nose
  
• Gentle tug-of-war or low-impact indoor fetch (with cats, try a feather wand)
  

When to Contact Your Vet

If pacing and anxiety persist for more than a few days or interfere with your pet’s appetite, sleep, or behavior, it’s time to call Twin Pines Veterinary Clinic. Our vets in Askov, MN can rule out underlying health concerns and help create a plan to manage your pet’s anxiety long term.

Sometimes restlessness is caused by pain, hyperthyroidism (especially in cats), or even cognitive dysfunction in older pets. A thorough exam is the safest way to understand the root cause.

Fun Facts to Know

• A dog’s sense of hearing is four times more sensitive than ours, making summer fireworks sound even louder to Fido.
  
• Cats are territorial by nature—when their space feels unsafe or chaotic, it often shows in their behavior.
  
• Pacing is a self-soothing behavior that dogs may use to “burn off” nervous energy, much like humans bite their nails or fidget.
  

FAQs

Is pacing always caused by anxiety?

Not always. Pain, boredom, heat discomfort, or even neurological conditions can cause pacing. It’s important to get your pet evaluated by a veterinarian.

Can cats suffer from anxiety too?

Yes! Cats are very sensitive to changes in their environment. Moving furniture, loud noises, and even new pets can make them anxious.

How can I calm my dog during fireworks?

Try white noise machines, keeping windows shut, and creating a safe hideout. You can also ask your vet about anxiety medications or calming aids.

What if my dog paces only at night?

Nighttime pacing can indicate discomfort, cognitive decline in older dogs, or anxiety. A vet checkup can help pinpoint the cause.

Should I be worried if pacing starts suddenly?

Yes. Sudden changes in behavior are always worth checking out with your veterinarian to rule out pain or illness.

We’re Here to Help in Askov, MN: Visit Twin Pines Veterinary Clinic Today

Summer should be fun for everyone—including your furry bestie. If your pet is pacing, restless, or acting anxious during the warmer months, don’t wait. The team at Twin Pines Veterinary Clinic, your trusted vet clinic and animal hospital in Askov, MN, is ready to support both your pet’s physical and emotional health.

If you’re searching for a vet near me who understands what your furry friend is going through, look no further. Schedule a wellness exam today and let us help your four-legged companion find peace, comfort, and relief from summer stress.