by Bridie Cavanaugh

Created on: May 12, 2009   Last Updated: March 21, 2010

As temperatures rise and you find yourself sitting in front of the fan and headng to the beach, it is also the time to pay special attention to how the warmer weather affects your pets. Here are some tips to keep your pets safe in hot weather.

Travel - Bring your pet along while you enjoy warmer weather but keep their safety in mind.

1. Leave your pets at home rather than leave them in a hot car. Pets should NEVER be left alone in a car during warmer weather. Temperatures can rise rapidly in a matter of minutes resulting in hyperthermia and death. Outside temperatures as low as 70F degrees can result in a dangerous environment inside a car. It is not enough to crack the car windows or leave the car in the shade.

2. Keep you pets out of the car's back windows or hatch backs. These areas heat up quickly and pets can become dehydrated and get potentially deadly heat stroke.

3. Provide fresh water at all times. Purchase a "no spill" water bowl.

4. Check with the airline for specific hot weather travel restrictions for your pets. If possible, have your pet accompany you in the passenger cabin.

Outdoors - Monitor pets carefully when spending time outdoors in the heat. Keep them indoors during the warmest parts of the day.

1. Provide fresh water and covered shelter.

2. Bring along water and a water bowl.

3. Exercise pets in the early morning, or evening, when the sun is less intense.

4. Walk your dog on grass instead of on hot pavement. Paw pads can easily burn. If the sidewalk is hot to your touch it will be hot on your dog's feet.

5. Apply pet friendly sunscreen to your pet's nose, ear tips and under belly. Light colored animals are more susceptible to sunburn.

6. Do not allow pets access to matches, lighter fluid, citronella or potentially harmful barbecue foods such as grilled chicken (with the bone) or onions.

7. Show your pet where the pool stairs are located and have him practice using the stairs to exit the pool. Never leave your pet unattended near a pool. Not all pets are natural swimmers. Do not let your pet drink pool water. It contains chemicals which are not good for your pet's digestive system.

8. Insure that your pet has adequate shade and water at the beach. Watch them for signs of over exertion. Pay attention to posted warnings for strong currents and high waves.

The heat is especially hard on older, or overweight, pets. Pets with short noses such as Pugs, Bulldogs or Persians also have a difficult time adjusting to the heat. Keep them inside as much as possible and limit exercise to cooler parts of the day.

Signs of overheating:

1. Heavy panting

2. Drooling

3. Elevated body temperature

4. Glazed eyes

5. Vomiting

6. Dark red, or purple, tongue

7. Staggering/unsteady

At the first signs of overheating, move your pet quickly to a shaded area. Apply cool water to his body. Work it into his fur. Offer small amounts of water or ice cubes and immediately seek veterinary care.

Keep a careful eye on your pets, watch out for their safety, and they will be able to enjoy the warm weather with you.

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