Trailblazing Unleashed

In honor of Trace and I’s first day of class together, I thought I’d write another back-to-school article (which I’m sure you’re sick of by now). It was crazy hot today, so we have another beat the heat feature!

When the semester kicks off under a blazing sun, managing your class schedule with a service dog becomes a strategic dance between access, safety, and hydration. Here’s how to keep your pup cool and your routine smooth—even when the heat is relentless.

1. Schedule Smart: Beat the Heat with Timing

• Prioritize morning or evening classes: Early/late hours mean cooler temps and less pavement heat for your dog’s paws.
• Avoid midday treks: If you must cross campus at noon, plan shaded routes or indoor shortcuts.
• Build in buffer time: Allow extra minutes for slower walks, water breaks, and paw checks. This was essential to my first day today! Taking our time was a big part of getting across campus in one piece.

I avoided classes in the middle of the day, to give us time to rest and rehydrate. I highly recommend doing the same1

2. Prep Your Pup: Gear Up for Summer Success

• Protect those paws: Use dog booties or paw wax to shield against hot pavement. Alternatively, take more breaks or follow shaded routes if this isn’t an option for you.
• Pack a cooling kit: Include a collapsible water bowl, cool blanket for rests, and a small towel for shade breaks.
• Monitor signs of heat stress: Excessive panting, drooling, or sluggishness means it’s time to rest and rehydrate.

Never make your pup keep going if they are showing signs of heat stress! Living with a service dog means taking more time to take of yourself, and your pup. Make sure you have a few minutes built into to your schedule to travel.

3. Campus Hacks: Stay Cool on the Go

• Scout shady spots: Map out tree-lined paths, covered walkways, and air-conditioned buildings. At NCSU, we love the Court of Carolinas as a place to rest in the shade.
• Use accessible entrances: These often lead to elevators and cooler indoor routes. Bonus points for automatic doors, as your hands are usually full when going with your pup!
• Ask for flexibility: If heat affects your dog’s performance, talk to professors about arriving early or joining remotely. Don’t sacrifice your health or your dogs for a class.

4. Advocate with Confidence

• Document weather-related needs: Include heat accommodations in your disability services file if relevant.
• Educate peers: A quick explanation of your dog’s role and heat precautions can foster understanding.
• Speak up early: If a class location or schedule poses a heat risk, request alternatives before the semester begins.

I always recommend talking to professors early, so check out our earlier article on that!

5. Recovery Matters: After-Class Care

• Cool down together: Rest in a shaded or air-conditioned space before heading home. No need to hop on a bus immediately.
• Check paws and hydration: Look for redness, dryness, or signs of dehydration.
• Celebrate small wins: Every successful class attended in the heat is a triumph—for both of you.

Be kind to yourself, and your pup as you learn how to navigate campus life.

Navigating campus life with a service dog in hot conditions isn’t just about logistics—it’s about partnership, preparation, and advocacy. With the right tools and mindset, you and your dog can tackle the semester with confidence and care.