Learn the signs of heat stress.

• In summer heat your pet can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which could lead to death. Symptoms include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, drooling, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
• If your pet becomes overheated, immediately move him into the shade and apply cool ( not cold) water over his body. Apply cold towels or ice packs to his head, neck, and chest. Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes. Most importantly, get him to a veterinarian immediately.

• According to the Humane Society, during the summer, the inside of your car can reach 120 degrees F. in a matter of minutes, even with the window open slightly or parked in the shade. Even an air- conditioned car with the motor off isn't healthy for your pet. Compared to humans, pets are more susceptible to overheating. Pets that are left in hot cars even briefly can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, and can even die.

• If you see a pet in a car alone during the hot summer months, alert the management of the store where the car is parked. If the owner does not return promptly, call local animal control or the police department immediately.

• Provide a cool shady spot and fresh, cool drinking water so your pet doesn't overheat. Dehydration can occur with dogs just like humans. Using a gentle sprinkle as well as a spill-proof bowl is also helpful.

• Make sure there is a good source of ventilation, either a fan or an airconditioner, so your pet can cool off.

• Since pets can get sunburned too, apply sunscreen on your pet's nose and ear tips. Short hair pets and those with light- colored hair are more susceptible to sunburn. Sensitive paws also burn easily on hot pavements and at beaches.

• Watch your pet as you would a child and prevent free access to pools. Even experienced swimmers can get exhausted and drown.

• Give your pet less food during extremely hot weather as over-eating can lead to over heating. Avoid strong activity in the hottest parts of the day, limiting exercise to early morning or evening hours. Also, be sure to take extra care with older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and those with thick coats.

• Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal in both cats and dogs. check with your veterinarian to see if your pets should be taking heartworm prevention medication and for recommended flee and tick treatments, as some over-the-counter flea and tick products can be toxic.

• Dog bites increase in the summer months, with both people and dogs spending more time outside. These precautions will reduce the likelihood that your pet will bite as well as provide many other health benefits.

Don't take your pets to crowded summer events such as concerts or fairs.

• The loud noises and crowds, combined with the heat, can be stressful and dangerous for pets. For your pet's well being, leave her at home.

• If flying, make sure your flight is direct. If traveling in a car, make sure you are perpared for feeding, watering and occasional breaks for exercise. Also, remember that pets can get injured in car accidents just like humans, Never let them ride in the open back area of a truck. If you take a trip without your pet, consider using a pet day care or boarding kennel.

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