Summer in Philadelphia is one of the best times of year to explore the city, take weekend getaways, and enjoy everything our neighborhoods have to offer. But with soaring temperatures and vacation season in full swing, it’s also the perfect time to think about keeping both you and your four-legged family members safe, comfortable, and happy.

Whether you’re planning a weekend at the Shore or simply trying to stay cool during another 95-degree afternoon, here are a few tips from the Watchtower Property Company team.

☀️ Stay Cool Together

Philadelphia summers can be beautiful—but they can also be dangerous for pets.

Here are a few simple ways to keep everyone comfortable:

• Walk your dog early in the morning or after sunset to avoid hot pavement that can burn sensitive paws.
• Keep plenty of fresh water available at all times, both at home and on walks.
• Never leave a pet in a parked vehicle—even with the windows cracked.
• Close blinds during the hottest part of the day to help keep your apartment cooler.
• Set your thermostat to a safe temperature before leaving home.
• Add a cooling mat or frozen enrichment toy to help your pet beat the heat indoors.

Remember: If the pavement is too hot for the back of your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

✈️ Traveling This Summer?

Vacation should be relaxing for everyone—including your pet.

Before heading out of town:

• Update your pet’s ID tags and microchip information.
• Pack medications and emergency veterinary contact information.
• Leave feeding instructions and your veterinarian’s phone number with your pet sitter.
• Schedule boarding or daycare early—summer fills up quickly.
• Consider a trial daycare visit before a longer boarding stay to help your pet become familiar with the environment.

🐾 Local Businesses We Love

One of the best parts about living in Philadelphia is supporting amazing local businesses.

If you’re looking for trusted care while you’re away, consider checking out:

• Just4Paws Philly – Conveniently located near East Falls, offering daycare and overnight care in a fun, supervised environment.
• Wag Watch – Boarding, daycare, grooming, and enrichment programs with year-round availability.
• Go Fetch Philly – Family-owned pet boarding, daycare, and pet sitting serving Philadelphia pet owners.

Have another favorite local pet business? We’d love to hear about it! We’re always looking to highlight the amazing small businesses that help make our communities stronger.

🌳 Enjoy Philadelphia—Safely

Summer is also a great excuse to explore your neighborhood.

Grab a coffee, visit a local park, enjoy dinner outdoors, or take an evening stroll once the temperatures cool down. Your pet will appreciate the extra adventure, and you’ll discover why so many people love calling Philadelphia home.

❤️ Home Is Better When Every Family Member Is Comfortable

At Watchtower Property Company, we know pets aren’t just pets—they’re family.

Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing weekend at home or heading out on your next adventure, we hope these simple tips help keep every member of your household safe, healthy, and cool this summer. Looking for your perfect pet friendly apartment, check out our listings by clicking here

Here’s to sunny days, happy tails, and making the most of everything Philadelphia has to offer!