Extreme heat is as dangerous for our pets as it is for us. So keeping your pets cool in the summer is a must. Here are some tips to protect your pets during hot summer months.

Run Errands Solo
Vehicle temperatures can be deadly. Consider that as hot as it may be outside, the temperature in a car is intensified and can exceed 120 degrees in just a few minutes, even on a sunny day with moderate temperatures. If at all possible, leave your pets at home while running errands during hot weather.

If you absolutely must leave your pets in a car, be sure to…
• Open vents and windows as much as possible without enabling your pets to escape,
or, put your pets in a well-ventilated pet carrier inside the car and open the windows all the way
• Keep pets hydrated with fresh water
• Check on your pet at least every 10 minutes

When It's Time to Call Your Veterinarian
• If your pet is panting continuously
• Has a fixed or anxious expression
• Does not obey commands as they normally would
• Has warm, dry skin and a high fever
• Has a rapid heartbeat, or is vomiting

What You Can Do
Lower your pet's body temperature with cool water as quickly as possible, either by placing them in a bath or pool or by spraying thoroughly with a garden hose.

For Pets Living Outdoors
• Provide shelter that protects them from the sun and heat
• Outdoor kennels should be well ventilated and in a shaded area.
• There should always be some shade for the pet to get out of the sun.
• Provide lots of fresh drinking water and keep it in the shade.

Exercise with Caution
Of course, you want to be sure your pet gets enough exercise. But it's possible to have too much of a good thing—especially during hot weather.
• Avoid excessive exercise
• Keep your pet well groomed as long hair and/or knotted hair can overheat your pet
• Be aware of other summer hazards such as West Nile

Fourth of July and Pets:
Firecrackers, and fireworks in general, present a danger to a pet's health and well-being.
• Do not take your pets to the fireworks; such an event can be utterly traumatic for a pet
• For added protection, keep your pets indoors from July 3rd through July 5th.

Consider the following story from a concerned pet lover…

One July 3rd a family was setting off fireworks in their driveway. The next morning, their neighbor's cat couldn't be found. The cat had been missing all night. He showed up much later in the day with an injured eye. Apparently so frightened by the noise and disturbance of the fireworks, the cat attempted to hide out in the woods and wound up running into a twig. When he arrived home, a bit of the twig was actually still lodged in his eye. Next year the owner plans to keep the cat in the house throughout 4th of July festivities.