Hillsborough County, Fla. (June 25, 2026) - The unusually high temperatures of recent weeks can be dangerous for animals as well as humans. Hillsborough County Animal Control is asking residents to take precautions to protect their pets after three dogs being kept outside died in three separate instances in less than two weeks.
In all three cases, the dogs were either tethered or in a crate. Animal Control managers stress that high temperatures can quickly cause serious or even fatal heat stress in dogs.
County ordinances state a dog shall not be tethered outside during extreme weather, including thunderstorms or extreme temperatures. Failure to keep a dog safe during periods of high temperatures can lead to civil citations or criminal charges.
Keeping pets indoors in air conditioning is almost always preferred over keeping a dog outdoors. Residents who keep dogs tethered or in a crate outdoors should follow these rules:
- Provide adequate shade. Direct sun can overheat a dog in a short time, particularly dogs with heavy coats.
- Make water available at all times. Dogs must have a constant source of fresh water so they can drink throughout the day.
- If a dog is tethered, the dog must be in visual range of the person in charge of the dog's welfare.
- Monitor the dog's condition frequently and check often to make sure it is not showing signs of distress.
- Some dogs should not be kept outdoors when temperatures soar, especially dogs that are not acclimated to Florida's temperature and humidity, or species or breeds with inherent physical characteristics that make it difficult to tolerate high heat. Examples would be dogs with thick, heavy coats or short, flat snouts that can make breathing difficult. Additionally, sick or very young or very old dogs are less able to resist the effects of heat.