Following is advice from Dr. Tod Schadler, Associate Dean of Clinical Studies at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. It came to me in a press release. As the owner of three cats and a very very furry dog (a collie named Miguel), this is a topic close to my heart. Our pets wear fur coats, sweat through their tiny mouths, and can’t tell us when they’re hot. So please heed this advice. Most of it’s common sense, but hey, some people don’t have any.

· Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. Parked cars are potential death traps for pets during the warm months. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a car can quickly climb to more than 120 degrees.

· Provide adequate shelter for protection from the heat if your pet lives outdoors. Outdoor kennels should be well ventilated and in a shaded area. There should always be an area where your pet can go to get out of the sun.

· Make sure that there is plenty of fresh drinking water available. The bowl should ideally be placed in a shaded area. Utilize a spill proof dish or provide a few bowls in case your pet tips one over.

· Avoid excessive exercise during hot days. Exercise is important, but over-exertion during hot weather can result in heat stress.

· Keep your pet well groomed. Overgrown and matted hair prevents good air circulation with your pet’s skin, making it more difficult to maintain a comfortable body temperature.

· Be aware of symptoms of heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that results when pets cannot maintain a normal body temperature. The warning signs of heatstroke include panting, staring or anxious expressions, a refusal to obey commands, warm and dry skin, high body temperature, rapid heartbeat and possibly vomiting. Call your veterinarian immediately if your pet exhibits any of these signs.