The Bridgewater Veterinary Hospital provides tips for taking care of your dogs in the summer heat.

• Never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight or in a closed vehicle. Heatstroke can occur and lead to brain damage or death. Signs of heatstroke include panting, drooling, rapid pulse and fever. If this happens, seek emergency veterinary care.
• Always make sure your pet has access to fresh water.
• Keep your dog on a leash when it is outdoors to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Try to avoid strenuous exercise with your dog on very hot days.
• Protect your animals from contact with toxic summertime chemicals, including weed killer, lawn and garden treatments; insecticides; snail bait; antifreeze; radiator fluid; and pool additives, among others.
• Avoid letting your dog hang his/her head out of the car window. Particles can lodge in the dog's eyes or ears.
• Be sure to have proper identification on your pet, such as a collar or micro-chip.
• Hot pavement can blister foot pads, so if you jog with your dog, go during cooler times of the day and check the feet from time to time.
• Keep short- or thin-coated pets indoors or in the shade, and apply dog-friendly sunblock when outdoors [some pets may be subject to sunburn].
• Beware of insect bites. If your dog is bitten or stung, remove the stinger and watch for an allergic reaction such as swelling, difficulty breathing, panting, vomiting and diarrhea.