It's HOT outside - we need to make sure our pets are well-cared for with proper shelter, food and fresh water.

When the temperature rises, we need to take extra caution to make sure our pets are okay in the heat. Here are some key tips to help keep your pet cool and safe.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR PET ALONE IN THE CAR ON A WARM DAY

Despite the warnings, every year, pets die after their owners leave them in a parked car that overheats. Within just a few minutes, a car can get extremely shot, stifling, and deadly. On a warm summer day, within 30 minutes it can get to 117 degrees inside the car. Never, ever leave any animal in a parked car on a warm day.

BE VIGILANT ABOUT VET CARE

When it starts getting warm outside, take your dog or cat to the vet for a full check up to include a heartworm test and a flea and tick protection plan. These are year-round issues but in the summer months, with much more outdoors time, it’s especially important to monitor them.

AVOID WALKING YOUR DOG IN THE HEAT

Aim for mornings and evenings when letting your dog outside. However, even in the coolest part of the day, watch for signs of trouble: Glassy eyes and frantic panting indicate a dog who needs help. It’s recommended to get to a veterinarian immediately if you see these symptoms.

KEEP YOUR HOME COOL FOR YOUR PETS

When the temperature outside gets hot, it can be harder to keep the indoors cool. Some people turn their air conditioning off when they leave for the day. If you have a pet at home, this could put him in danger. Instead of turning off the air conditioner, try leaving it on a conservative but comfortable setting. Make sure your pet has water and consider closing curtains to reduce the heating effects of sunlight through the windows.

GIVE YOUR PETS ACCESS TO SHADE AND PLENTY OF WATER

Pets can get dehydrated or get heatstroke quickly so any pet outside needs to have plenty of water and access to shade. No pet should be left outside for long periods of time in very hot or very cold weather without proper shelter and access to food and water.

KNOW WHICH DOGS ARE LESS TOLERANT OF HEAT

Some dog breeds are less tolerant of the heat than others. Short-nosed dogs (Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, Boxers, Shih Tzu’s and French Bulldogs), large and furry animals are less tolerant of heat. Also, dogs and puppies who are older, obese, and those with health issues can be more susceptible to hot weather. Keep a close eye on your pets in the heat, no matter what his breed, age or state of health.

Our pets rely on us to protect and keep them comfortable and safe year round! Remember, if you’re hot, your pets are definitely hot!!

Article adapted from PetFinder.

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