Cats and dogs can suffer from the same problems that humans do - overheating, dehydration and even sunburn - when the temperature rises. But by taking the following simple precautions recommended by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), you can keep your animal companions happy and healthy in the hot weather:
Exercise your pet in the cool of the early morning or evening never when its extremely hot or humid. Take care not to let your cat stand on hot asphalt, as his sensitive paw pads can easily burn.
Provide plenty of shade and cool, clean water for animals kept outdoors. Bring your cat or dog inside during the hottest part of the day to rest in a cool part of the house.
Never leave your cat alone in a vehicle. Overheating can be fatal. Even with the doors open, a parked automobile can become a furnace. Parking in the shade offers little protection, as the sun shifts during the day.
Some animals will need extra care in hot weather, especially those who are elderly and overweight or have heart or lung disease.
If your pet is showing signs of heatstroke or exhaustion, take him to a veterinarian immediately. For more tips, visit the ASPCA online.
Posted: July 25, 2006, 5 a.m. EST