Climate Change Impacts on Companion Animal Welfare

Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are increasingly affecting companion animal health and welfare.

Key Facts

Heatstroke in dogs is a growing veterinary emergency as temperatures rise
Tick-borne diseases are expanding geographically due to warming winters
Wildfires displace millions of pets annually in the US Western states
Flooding is a leading cause of companion animal abandonment and death

Welfare Considerations

Climate change is already affecting companion animal welfare through multiple pathways. Extreme heat increases heatstroke risk, especially in brachycephalic breeds and dark-coated animals. Tick ranges are expanding as winters warm, exposing animals to Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other pathogens. Wildfires and floods create sudden disasters that separate pets from owners and overwhelm rescue capacity. Adapting companion animal care to climate change requires both individual preparedness and systemic planning.

What You Can Do

Plan for extreme heat — never leave pets in vehicles or without shade and water
Keep tick prevention current year-round as ranges expand
Include pets in your household emergency and evacuation plan
Advocate for climate policies that reduce the frequency and severity of extreme weather