Here are some tips to protect your pets during summer heat waves.

Cars are potential death traps During the hot summer months because inside temperatures can climb to more than 120 degrees in just a few minutes, even on a mild sunny day. It's best to leave your pet at home while running errands during hot weather. In an emergency, if you absolutely must leave your pet in a car, PLEASE DO THE FOLLOWING:

Open the windows and vents as wide as possible without providing an escape route, or, put your pet in a well ventilated cage inside the car and open the windows fully.   Provide fresh water and check the car every ten minutes.

If your pet is panting, has a staring or anxious expression, does not obey commands, has warm, dry skin and a high fever, rapid heartbeat, or is vomiting, lower the body temperature quickly, with cool water either by immersion or by spraying thoroughly with a garden hose. CALL YOUR VETERINARIAN IMMEDIATELY.
 
If your pet is outside, make sure there is adequate shade for the pet to get out of the sun.  Also, make sure there is plenty of fresh drinking water available to your pet. The bowl should be placed in a shaded area where it cannot be heated by the sun.

Exercise is important, but overexertion during hot weather commonly causes heat stress. Avoid excessive exercise during hot days.  Keep your pet well groomed ~ hair mats need to be clipped to help cool your dog.  

Fourth of July and your pet: FIRECRACKERS are a danger to all pets-both physically and psychologically. Do not take your pets to the fireworks-We have seen many emotionally frightened pets as a result of fireworks.