It is great to enjoy summer with your pet. But it is also the time when they have the greatest risk of injury and heat-related health problems. So here are some tips on keeping things cool this summer.

Watch for the signs of heatstroke. Rapid breathing, hot skin, twitching muscles, a dazed look. Wrap them in a towel soaked with cool, not cold water. In severe cases, place them in the bathtub. Heatstroke can be fatal. See us as soon as possible.

Never leave your pet in a parked car. Not even if you crack the windows or park in the shade. On a 70-degree day, the car temperature can rise above 150 degrees in minutes. It is extremely dangerous and the number one cause of heatstroke.

Keep vaccinations up-to-date. This is the time when most pets cone in contact with other animals, at parks, campgrounds, etc.

Always provide plenty of fresh water. Dogs can only sweat through the pads of their feet and by panting. Evaporation for the wet surfaces of their mouth and nose helps lower body temperature.

Stop external parasites before they bite. Flea, ticks and ear mites thrive in warm, humid environments. See us for a preventive program.

Also avoid internal parasites. Be sure your dog has been heartworm tested and is on a preventative.

Watch for hot pavements and beaches. Sensitive paws burn easily.

Find a cool spot. For indoor pets, keep the air circulating with a childproof fan or air conditioner. Provide shade for outdoor pets. And a gentle sprinkler from a hose is always appreciated.

The streets are not safe. Do not let your pets roam. Just in case - make sure your pet is licensed. We see twice as many fight injuries and bite wounds in summer and, of course, your pet is no match for a car.

The yard is not always safe, either. Be cautious of pesticides and herbicides. Read the precautions for lawn chemicals carefully and keep pets away from newly treated yards. If pets come in contact with chemicals, wash their feet, abdomen and chest thoroughly, then contact us.

Brush after every heel. Frequent brushing provides early warning of parasites and skin infections by lifting the coat, permitting a view of the skin below.

It is allergy season. People sneeze. Pets scratch. Common pet allergies include pollen, grass and weeds. If your pet scratches excessively or chews at its paws, bring in for an exam. We can design a program to help.

Watch the diet and exercise. Do not encourage exercise during the hottest part of the day and let them eat less. Overeating can lead to overheating.

Not every dog paddles well. Animals in the water for the first time should be eased in, never thrown or chased in. Do not let them drink from pools, streams or the ocean. If they swim, rinse them off. Salt and minerals can damage the coat of a dog.

Sunburn is no day at the beach. It hurts! Shorthaired pets and those with pink skin and white hair are especially susceptible. Limit their exposure.

If you have any questions, please send us e-mail. Ks@crossroadsvet.com or Kj@crossroadsvet.com .