Summer is in full swing in the neighborhood! There are a ton of events in Portland's Pearl District, like the Culinary Farmer's Market! Better still, most of them are dog friendly! Better still, these events are dog friendly! It's a great way to get out, explore the neighborhood and get your walk in at the same time! 

Summer in Portland is always great, but over the past couple years it's been getting hot. As we see more and more extreme heat, it's important to remember that dogs (and other pets) are affected as well. A little preparation goes a long way toward making sure your dog has a happy, healthy summer right alongside you.

Watch the Pavement

Here's something a lot of people don't think about: if the sidewalk is too hot for your bare feet, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Asphalt and concrete can heat up to temperatures well above the air temperature on a sunny day, and paw pads are more sensitive than they look. Try the five-second test before heading out: press your hand flat on the pavement for five seconds. If it's uncomfortable for you, skip the walk or stick to shaded paths and grassy areas. Early morning and evening walks are your best bet when the ground has had a chance to cool down. You may also consider investing in booties for your furry friends if you have to go out during the heat of the day. 

Hydration is Everything

While we sweat in the sun, dogs rely on panting to cool themselves down, and can struggle to regulate their body temperature in extreme heat. That means they need access to fresh, cool water at all times during the summer months. Bring a collapsible water bowl and a bottle of water whenever you head out, whether it's to the dog park, a hike, or just a longer-than-usual neighborhood stroll. At home, check water bowls frequently on hot days since water left in the sun can get warm fast and becomes less appealing to drink.

NEVER Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

This one cannot be stressed enough. On a 70-degree day, the inside of a parked car can climb to over 100 degrees in just 20 minutes, even with the windows cracked. Dogs cannot cool themselves efficiently in that environment, and heatstroke can set in quickly. If you are running errands, leave your dog at home where it is cool and comfortable. No errand is worth the risk.

Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke in dogs is a genuine emergency. Signs to watch for include heavy, excessive panting, drooling more than usual, a bright red tongue or gums, lethargy, vomiting, and in severe cases, loss of coordination or collapse. If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a cool, shaded area right away, offer small amounts of water, and contact your veterinarian immediately. Acting fast makes all the difference.

Be Thoughtful About Exercise

Your dog might be full of energy and ready to go no matter how hot it is outside, but it is your job to set the limits. High-energy breeds can push themselves past their safe threshold without showing obvious signs of distress until it is too late. Keep outdoor playtime shorter during peak heat hours, between about 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and watch your dog closely for signs of fatigue. Plenty of indoor enrichment activities, like puzzle toys and training games, can keep them mentally stimulated on the hottest days without putting them at risk.

Sunburn is Real for Dogs Too

Dogs with short, light-colored coats and pink skin, particularly on the nose, ear tips, and belly, can actually get sunburned. Pet-safe sunscreen is available and worth applying if your dog will be spending extended time outdoors in direct sunlight. Check with your vet for a recommendation on the right product, since human sunscreens can contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs.

Summer Fun, Safely Done

Summer is one of the best times to bond with your dog and explore everything Portland has to offer together. Keeping these simple precautions in mind means more good days out and fewer worries. Your dog is counting on you to look out for them, and with a little planning, the two of you can enjoy the whole season in great shape.

Have a wonderful summer from all of us at Downtown Self Storage. We are proud to serve the Pearl District community, and we love seeing our neighbors and their pets out, safely making the most of the warm weather. We have units available to store everything from crates to extra bowls and old toys. Whatever your storage needs, Downtown Self Storage is here to help! 

Grab a Unit Before Summer Peaks

Units are going fast right now, and summer is the busiest season. Lock in a deal before the crowds hit:

Davis Street: Tiered deal: 75% off Month 1, 50% off Month 2, 25% off Month 3 on select units. Starting as low as $11/month.

Johnson Street: 50% off for 2–3 months on select units. Starting as low as $25/month.

All units include web rates and contact-free rental options.

Both locations offer U-Haul truck and van rentals too: handy if you're hauling in a new kayak or finally clearing out the garage before camping season takes over.

Two Locations in the Pearl District

Downtown Self Storage — Davis Street
1305 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209
971-277-4178

Downtown Self Storage — Johnson Street
1304 NW Johnson Street, Portland, OR 97209
971-277-3575

Follow us on Instagram @downtownselfstoragepdx for storage tips, local highlights, and the occasional reminder that it's a beautiful day to go outside.

Have water plans this summer? Check out our post "The Dog Days of Summer: Some River Safety Tips."