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Pet heat safety: staying cool in the summer
By KTVU FOX 2 News
· July 14, 2026
· 1 min read
That sidewalk may not look hot, but it can burn your dog’s paws in seconds. With triple-digit temperatures expected in some inland areas, veterinarians are reminding pet owners to rethink outdoor routines before the afternoon heat peaks. Dr. Melissa Jacobs, SF SPCA Hospital Medical Director, give...
Key takeaway Melissa Jacobs, SF SPCA Hospital Medical Director, gives insight.
Why this matters in The San Francisco
San Francisco 's mild climate can be deceiving, and pet owners may not realize the risks of heat-related injuries to their dogs, even in the city's cooler neighborhoods. As temperatures soar in inland areas, local veterinarians like Dr. Melissa Jacobs are sounding the alarm about the dangers of hot sidewalks and pavement, which can cause severe burns to a dog's paws in a matter of seconds. This warning is particularly relevant for dog owners who frequent popular walking spots, such as those near Lake Merced or in Golden Gate Park, where pavement and sidewalks can still reach scorching temperatures. By taking precautions and adjusting their outdoor routines, pet owners can help keep their dogs safe and healthy during the warmest months of the year, and local animal hospitals like the SF SPCA Hospital can focus on preventative care rather than treating heat-related emergencies.
About this story
Original reporting by KTVU FOX 2 News . The San Francisco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KTVU FOX 2 News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 14, 2026 ·
Source: KTVU FOX 2 News ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? That sidewalk may not look hot, but it can burn your dog’s paws in seconds. With triple-digit temperatures expected in some inland areas, veterinarians are reminding pet owners to rethink outdoor routines before the afternoon heat peaks. Dr. Melissa Jacobs, SF SPCA Hospital Medical Director, give...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 14, 2026 by KTVU FOX 2 News and curated for The San Francisco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by KTVU FOX 2 News. To learn more about how The San Francisco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Francisco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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