Spring is in the air, and depending how much breeze you’re getting, summer is sneaking in, too. It’s the perfect time of year for outdoor activities for humans, and it’s also the time of year when it is most important to keep our pups in mind. We want them to have fun with us, and we have a responsibility to keep them safe in the heat. Luckily, it’s not only possible, but perfectly easy to do both.
Our friends at CentralPet Express Care, the new vet clinic in Downtown St. Pete (19 Dr. MLK Jr. St. South), helpfully curated a list of dog-friendly parks and beaches where you can find shade, as well as a list of helpful tips and guidance when it comes to taking care of your dog during Florida’s hotter seasons.
As we get into that guide, we do want to give a shoutout to CentralPet. Since opening at the end of 2025, they’ve offered something that is incredibly difficult to find: expert care that is not only affordable, but available at the hours it actually makes sense for you.
There are two key factors that allow CentralPet to provide that level of service. First, walk-in care is not only allowed, but encouraged. From limping to sudden sickness, they’re ready immediately for whatever arises. Second, CentralPet is open nights, weekends, and holidays, unlike most veterinary clinics. Open Monday, Thursday, and Friday 1PM-9PM, Saturday 10AM-8PM, and Sunday 10AM-4PM, the veterinary team is ready to take care of whatever pops up.
We highly recommend CentralPet for all your veterinary needs – emergencies and checkups alike – though we hope heat-related issues won’t be the reason for your visit!
CentralPet staff with a patient
Three great dog-friendly beaches
Ft. De Soto Dog Beach
3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde
Let your dogs roam this beautiful, historic beach off-leash. Let them dive and splash in the water, make some new puppy friends and enjoy the Florida sunshine. There are also 2 fenced-in areas near the beach for large and small dogs with water stations.
Honeymoon Island State Park
1 Causeway Boulevard, Dunedin
This expansive state park features a designated beach area for dogs, in addition to allowing leashed pets on the nature trail. It’s a Dunedin gem and totally worth the trip with your pooch. Bonus: Downtown Dunedin is incredibly dog-friendly for your post-beach fun.
Davis Islands Dog Beach
1002 Severn Street, Tampa
This waterfront dog beach is a totally laid-back spot to unwind with your four-legged friend. The area features a water fountain and wash station to help keep your dog cool and clean while they play. If you wanted an excuse to try out that new restaurant, here’s your sign.
Three great city parks for a walk or dog park play time
North Shore Park
901 N Shore Dr NE
A favorite for downtown and Old Northeast residents, North Shore Park combines its large walking trail with ample shade and green spaces as well as a heavily-shaded, gated dog park right off the main walking path.
Crescent Lake Park
1320 5th St N
You don’t have to hit the shoreline to enjoy a waterfront park. Crescent Lake has it all, from the shady one-mile loop around the lake and the massive new playground area to the tucked away dog park and the always large number of fellow dog owners out for a walk.
Vinoy Park
701 Bayshore Dr NE
The 11-and-a-half-acre park is one of Downtown St. Pete’s crown jewels, and it’s always a popular destination for humans and dogs alike. There is tons of space, as well as regular opportunities to bark at dolphins. There is also ample shade, but without a dedicated dog park, we recommend sticking to the hours around dawn or dusk.
Tips from the vets at CentralPet for protecting dogs in high temps
Heat hits harder here (even if it doesn’t feel extreme) – Florida humidity makes it harder for pets to cool down overheating can happen fast, even in the shade. Pavement and sand especially get HOT
If it’s too hot for your hand for 5–7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws. Sand at the beach can burn just as bad as asphalt.
Walk early or late – Best times in St. Pete: Before 10 AM; After 6–7 PM. Midday walks are the biggest risk.
Hydration is everything – Always bring water and don’t rely on public bowls. Collapsible bowls are perfect for beach days.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: Heavy panting; Drooling; Lethargy; Vomiting. If you see vomiting, cool them down and get veterinary care ASAP.
Saltwater + sand = problems: Drinking saltwater can cause vomiting/diarrhea. Sand ingestion (from toys/licking) can lead to blockages.
Shade is your best friend: Whether it’s a beach umbrella or a shaded park — pets need breaks from direct sun.
And finally: Know where to go if something feels off. Having a local vet open evenings/weekends (like CentralPet) gives peace of mind. Learn more about them here.