Keep your pets safe in the hot weather

Now that it has warmed up for the summer, I would like to remind everyone about the dangers of leaving your pets inside parked cars.

Dogs can suffer and die when left inside a parked car, even on mildly warm days. On a 78-degree day, the temperature inside a shaded car is 90 degrees, while the inside of a car parked in the sun can reach 160 degrees in minutes.

Heatstroke can happen in as little as 15 minutes, and can result in brain damage or even death for your pet.

Follow these helpful tips for preventing heatstroke:

• If you see a dog in danger, try to have the dog's owner paged inside the store or call the police: They can unlock the car and get the dog out.

• Don't carry your dog in the bed of a pickup truck. This is always dangerous, but the heat brings the added danger of burning the dog's feet on the hot metal.

• Don't take your dog jogging -- except on cool mornings or evenings -- and don't force exercise. On long walks, rest often and take plenty of water.

• Trim heavy-coated dogs' fur, but leave an inch for protection against insects and sunburn.

Keep an eye on areas where hair is thin, as they can get sunburned.

• Keep your dog indoors. If he or she must stay outside for long, avoid the hottest part of the day. Provide shade, water and a kiddie pool.

Keep drinking water in a heavy bowl that won't tip over.

• Watch for chained dogs. Make sure that they have food, water, and shelter. If you see a dog in distress, contact humane authorities. Give the dog immediate relief by providing water.

For more information, please visit www.peta.org.

Have a safe and healthy summer for you and your pet!

Jessica Kestler

Naperville