by Sophia Josephina

Created on: July 19, 2009

Did you know that Fido doesn't actually sweet like humans do? Your dog really can only sweat through their toes. No really - it's true! This is why dogs and cats pant. Panting allows them to get rid of some of the heat and cool their bodies.

Although panting can relieve some of the heat it really doesn't work all that well, so here are a few tips to keep your dog or cat heat free during the summer's scorching weather.

Always make sure your pet has plenty of cold water. It's best to give cold water, because it stays in their system longer - hot water tends to take a quick trip through the animals body and is of no relieve for your animal.

Check the water bowl often. Your dog may like to tip over the water bowl and spill his or her water so it's a good idea to check every two hours. The pet store also has a self watering dog bowl which also keeps the water cool by passing through a coil - instantly cooling the water for your pet.

For cats you can leave a faucet on in a bathroom. Just let your faucet drip the cat will find its way to the refreshing drink.

Make sure your beloved pet has adequate shelter. A covered porch, shady tree, or an umbrella will do nicely; it really doesn't have to be something elaborate.

If you have an enclosed area such as a garage or doghouse, make sure you check its temperature at the hottest part of the day. The rule of thumb here is if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your dog or cat. Sometimes enclosed areas are not a good idea because air does not flow through the structure like a more open area would.

This is one of those "Believe It or Not" things, but sunburns are common in dogs with skin showing or where there is very little hair such as the nose and the ears. It is a good idea to keep sunblock with SPF 15 or higher on those areas.

Dogs tend to lick this off so you may have to put it on a little more often. When buying sunblock try not to get the kind that has zinc in it (zinc is poisonous if ingested) - usually sunblock for children works well for dogs.

Try to take your daily walks in the morning or at night after the sun has gone down. These are the coolest parts of the day for your dog, and remember to take plenty of water with you especially if you are going to let your dog run.

Dogs also use their hair or fur as a temperature regulator. So don't get their hair cut too short in summer it may actually help to relieve some of the sweltering summer heat.

Put a wading pool close to your dog when he or she is outside. They will love to play in the water and in the process of having fun your dog will cool themselves off.

Parked cars this is the number one death of dogs by pet owners. Veterinaries recommend that you never leave a dog in a car for more than 2 minutes. A car can heat up to a shocking 250 degrees in five minutes or less. This is oven temperature!

If you must leave your beloved pet in a car please make sure you park in a shady area and leave as many windows open as you can. Not to low you don't want your dog to jump out.

These tips will help you and your dog to have a safe and happy summer.

Learn more about this author, Sophia Josephina.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.