Never leave your pet unattended in direct sunlight.  Provide some type of shelter or protection from the sun and other elements. When it gets too hot, bring your pet inside.  Always provide plenty of access to fresh cool water. Never leave your pet in a closed vehicle. Temperatures can quickly rise above 120 degrees even on an overcast day. Excessive exposure to heat can cause dogs and cats to suffer from heatstroke and possibly death.

Avoid strenuous exercise with your dog during extremely hot periods of the day. Exercise with your dog either in the early morning or in the early evening Remember that most lawn and garden products can be hazardous to your pet. Keep your pesticides and fertilizers out of your animals reach.  Be cautious of any insect bites. If you notice any swellings or other signs of an allergic reaction, take your pet to your veterinarian.

Remember that most antifreeze is EXTREMELY toxic to cats and dogs. Make sure to clean up any spills and to properly dispose of any used or unused antifreeze.  Monitor your pet for fleas and ticks. Remember, there are a variety of preventatives available to protect you pets. Bring your pet to your veterinarian for a spring/summer check-up and ask which preventative is best for your pet(s).

Your pet’s hair coat is a natural insulator whether it is warm or cool. In the summer, an animal’s hair coat insulates and protects against the sun, heat and insect  bites. Regular brushing removes dirt and loose undercoat which cleans and cools your pet.  Remember that traveling with your pet can be stressful. If taking long car trips, remember to stop every few hours to allow you pet to have a break and get some exercise. Protect your pet’s paws from burns. Concrete and asphalt can be very hot and cause burns to your pet’s feet. Remember to walk on grass or dirt or take your daily walks in the early morning or early evening as previously discussed.

Open car windows can be dangerous if your pet rides with their head outside of the window. Bugs, pebbles or other debris can get in their eyes. Also, automatic car windows can be accidentally closed which can cause serious harm.