Summer is here!  It's a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your canine and feline companions.  Just remember that, unlike you, dogs and cats only sweat through their noses and the pads on their feet.  So here are some tips to keep your furry friends happy, healthy and safe through the "dog (and cat) days" of summer.

Help keep your companions hydrated:

1. Take along plenty of water wherever you go and offer it often.  Dogs and cats can't tell you when they are thirsty.
2. At home, have several sources of fresh water available to encourage them to drink often.
3. Keep outdoor activities to a minimum in the hottest part of the day - usually between 4 and 6 pm.

Heatstroke can be DEADLY. Help prevent it by:

1. Keeping you companion animals hydrated.
2. Provide them with shade to escape from the hot, summer sun.
3. NEVER leave a dog or cat in the car, even with the windows cracked. The sun can heat the metal and glass windows very quickly and, in a few minutes, the temperature inside can be high enough to cause heat stroke, neurological problems, kidney failure and DEATH.

Signs of heatstroke:

1. Rapid panting or difficulty breathing.
2. Rolling eyes.
3. Staggering or the inability to walk.
4. Lying prone and unable to move.
5. A high temperature:
   1. Dogs - 100.2 - 102.8
   2. Cats - 100.5 - 102.5

First Aid for Heatstroke:

1. Get your dog or cat out of the heat and take his temperature.
2. Spray him with cool water or place cool, wet towels on his neck, abdomen and back for several minutes.
3. Recheck his temperature.
4. Take your companion to the nearest veterinary hospital immediately.