People don’t say “the dog days of summer” for nothing. Pups love the warmer weather just as much as you do. But the season’s harsh heat and sweltering sunshine can be problematic for your pet. Each summer, hundreds of dogs are treated for heat stroke, while many more suffer the ill effects of ailments like heartworm, dehydration, and even drowning. But the good news is that there are plenty of ways to keep your pup safe this season.

BEAT THE HEAT
The saddest sight you will see this summer? A poor pup locked in a car on a hot day. While no one is safe in a parked car during the sun, dogs are especially susceptible to succumbing to heat stroke. In fact, according to the AAA Chicago Motor Club, a car’s interior temp can climb to 170 degrees on an 85-degree day in under 20 minutes, even with the windows cracked. So if you need to run an errand and happen to have your pooch along for the ride, take her in with you (or better yet, just leave her in your air conditioned home with plenty of water).

Even your dog needs relief: Protect your dog from heat stroke this summer| Sheknows.com