Y’all! It’s getting hot! And with a holiday weekend upon us, we are all *hopefully* going to be out enjoying the beautiful warm weather! Don’t forget the sunscreen and to stay hydrated! No drinking and driving and keep an eye out for friends and loved ones — including your furbabies!

Cats and dogs are as susceptible to heat-related illnesses as their human companions. So use these tips to keep your pets safe this summer!
Recognize heat stroke

Pets can suffer from heat stroke, according to the American Red Cross. Certain breeds of dogs are highly susceptible, particularly those with short snouts, such as pugs and bulldogs. Excessive exercise in hot weather, lack of appropriate shelter outdoors and leaving a dog in a hot car may precipitate an episode of heat stroke. It’s important to get the pet out of direct heat right away and check for signs of shock, which include seizures, a body temperature of 104 F or higher, stupor, increased heart rate, or excessive panting. Placing water-soaked towels on the pet’s feet, head, neck, and abdomen can bring down its temperature.
Be cautious of hot surfaces

Humans wear shoes on their feet for protection, but pets do not have that luxury. Think about how hot your feet can feel when you scurry barefoot across hot sand en route to the shoreline or to cross a deck to get to the pool. When the sun beats down on surfaces, those surface temperatures rise quickly. According to a 2010 study by Liberty Home and Pet Services, at peak afternoon sun and an ambient temperature of 95 F in southern Florida, the temperature of cement was measured at 125 F, red brick at 135 F, blacktop at 140 F, and grass at 102 F. Individuals who think a car is safer for their dog or cat may be surprised the informal study measured 152 F on seat surfaces.
Provide extra water

It’s likely you will need to fill your pets’ water bowls more frequently in warm weather than during other times of the year. Be sure to provide constant access to fresh water, even for young puppies who may be learning to house train.
Avoid cutting fur too short

If a veterinarian suggests a haircut may be beneficial for keeping a pet cool or comfortable, resist the urge to shave down to the skin. Having at least one inch of fur will protect the pet from sunburn.
Outdoor hazards

Warm weather may bring out a high number of insects and wildlife. Use a flea and tick preventative product and medication to protect against heartworm, which is transmitted through mosquitoes. Snakes, skunks, raccoons, foxes, and other animals may be roaming around, and a scuffle with your pet can result in injury.
DON’T LEAVE YOUR PETS IN A HOT CAR!

Let me say this louder for the people in the back — DON’T LEAVE YOUR PET IN THE CAR IN THE SUMMER! It’s always significantly hotter inside your car and it can take very little time for your furry friend to overheat! If wherever you are going requires leaving your dog in the car — leave your dog at home! I promise you; they will be much happier at home in the cool air than in the car!

So enjoy your 4th of July, but please keep yourself, and your pets safe!