Here are our top ten tips to keeping your pet healthy in summer heat.

1. HYDRATION. Whether your pet is an indoor or outdoor pet, make sure they have plenty of fresh, clean water to drink.

2. If your pet does go outside, make sure there is a comfortable, shady spot for them to relax in.  Don’t over-exercise them, either.

3. Never leave your pet in a parked car on extremely hot days, not even with the windows cracked. This is even illegal in some states where extreme weather is a summer norm.

4. Not all dogs doggy paddle. Don’t leave pets unattended around pools.

5. Check your screens. Your indoor cat likes to bat at bugs it sees on the other side, and you must be sure the screen is secure, lest your cat fall out. Keep ALL unscreened windows in your home closed.

6. Visit your vet at the start of the season. A pet insurance plan can save you money on this one, in case it’s expense you’re worried about.

7. Don’t have pet insurance? Pet Assure has a plan that goes further than most pet insurance, for less money.

8. Know your warning signs. Excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor, collapse, seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit are all signs that your pet needs a vet right away. (See above for related pet insurance advice.)

9. Avoid spraying chemicals where your pet might eat them. Be careful even with citronella candles.

10. Got a shaggy dog? Give him a haircut so he can feel some breeze!