by Donna M. Houston

Created on: May 14, 2009   Last Updated: August 22, 2009

Spring is in the air! And that means one thing for sure: the dog days of summer will soon be upon us. Are you ready? How about your pet? Read on for tips and advice about keeping your pet healthy and happy during the summer months.

Did you know that without proper protection and common sense considerations dogs and cats can experience the same heat-related consequences as you and I? They can overheat, suffer dehydration and get a sunburn.

Your pet cannot perspire, thus their only means to dispel heat is through the pads of their paws, and by panting. This makes it imperative that they never be left in automobiles unattended. The temperature inside a closed car can rise to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in minutes. The Humane Society of America warns that pets left inside hot vehicles for even brief periods of time can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, or even death.

Some steps you can take to help your furry friends stay comfortable are:

*Clipping their coats to one-inch lengths

*Brushing them

*Providing them with plenty of cool, fresh water.

Follow the ASPCA recommendations when travelling with your pet and bring along a gallon thermos filled with water for them to drink.

Animals outside, especially at the beach, need to have easy access to shaded areas. A well made dog house will afford Fido much welcomed shelter if you keep him outdoors. When temperatures rise, animals with heart or lung disease should be kept in, where it is cooler. Special consideration should also be given to older or overweight dogs and cats.

Certain breeds and types are more susceptible to heat related illnesses and injuries than others. They include:

* Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs such as bull-dogs, pugs, Boston Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus

*animals with thick coats

*Those with light colored noses or ears. (An animal approved sunscreen should be applied to prevent sunburn)

You might want to limit exercise and walks to the early morning and evening hours: asphalt can get pretty hot under the midday sun. Stepping on it can burn sensitive paw-pads. When exercising remember to:

*Watch out for lawns that have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals as they have the potential to harm your pets

*Keep an eye out for puddles of sweet-tasting but deadly coolant

*be aware that there are over 700 plants that are toxic to your animal friend.

Signs of heat-related stress in your four-legged companion are heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, and a thick red or purple tongue.

If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms take immediate steps to cool him down:

*get them in the shade immediately

*apply cool (not cold) water to their body

*place cold towels or ice packs to their head, neck or chest.

*give them small amounts or water to drink, or better yet, let them lick ice cubes.

*Call a veterinarian!

With a little foresight and preparation you can take some of the sting out of the rising temperatures and ensure your favorite four-legged family member truly has some fun in the sun.

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