Summertime means school vacations and play to humans - but can pose special dangers to pets, especially those left in cars in hot weather.
Each year countless pets die because their owners don't realize how hot a parked car can get on a summer day, reports the Humane Society of the United States.Even leaving the windows partly open doesn't help much. The inside of a car can get hot enough to give a dog heatstroke in minutes.
Just the time it takes to run in to the store for a few items can be deadly.
The Humane Society points out that dogs can't sweat. They cool their body by panting, and if they are simply inhaling hot air, that doesn't help.
The simple answer is, leave the dog at home.
If your dog does get overheated, danger signs include heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid pulse and a deep red or purple tongue.
If this occurs, take it to a shady spot or inside where there is air conditioning.
The Humane Society recommends applying ice packs or cold towels to the dog's head, neck and chest and then get the dog to a veterinarian.
Let the animal lick ice cubes or ice cream but do not give unlimited water, the society says.
Both dogs and cats are sensitive to hot weather and should be provided with a shady place and plenty of water during the summer.
Don't walk them on hot asphalt and remember that shorthaired breeds are susceptible to sunburn.
Don't be alarmed if the animal eats less in hot weather. That can be normal.
It is not unusual for cats and dogs to nibble grass, especially in the heat or when they do not feel well. But pesticides and other lawn chemicals can be dangerous, so keep them away from these products and lawns treated with chemicals.
Be careful with treated wood widely used on decks and lawn furniture because it resists rot. Many of these woods contain arsenic and can endanger pets that chew.
Worms, fleas and ticks are also plentiful in the summer, so check the pet's skin regularly and have the veterinarian check him for worms.
Heartworms are a particular problem, but are easily prevented with regular medication available from vets.
Traveling with a pet can be fun, but also presents special hassles.
Many motels welcome pets, though some charge a couple of dollars extra. But check in advance, because many do not allow pets.
It can be helpful to put two collars on a pet, with ample identification on each. That way, if he slips one off and gets lost, there will still be an ID tag.
Carriers can be safest for pets in a car, and they are essential if traveling on an airplane or train. Talk to the airline well in advance and make sure you understand how "live cargo" is handled.
The Humane Society urges pet owners to avoid sending pets on a flight that the owners won't be on, and to be careful about flights that stop en route and those in the hottest part of the day.
If you decide to leave the pet in a kennel, get referrals from the veterinarian and friends.
Then check out the kennel - use your eyes, ears and nose to make sure it's fresh and clean and the pets appear happy and well cared for.
Examine the kennel carefully in advance to check on heating, cooling, ventilation, provision for exercise and diet. Ask if a veterinarian is on call and if you can leave special toys or blankets with the pet.