April showers are gone, and the sun's rays are on. Now's the time to enjoy some cat cuddles and romps

with your dogs. But make sure your pets stay healthy and safe during this season marked by pests and

high temperatures. Here are seven ways to safeguard your pets:

your veterinarian for flea and tick control options, and always keep your

pet?s vaccinations current.

trips to the ocean, make sure your pets don?t drink the salt water?it

upsets

their stomach, just like yours. And watch those currents; the best

paddling dog can struggle against a mean undertow.

sessions safe by stopping for drinks of fresh water and finding shady

spots for necessary panting breaks. Some pet owners also help prevent

overheating

with short fur shaves for cats and dogs in the summer.

drooling, bright red gums, weakness, and balance problems. As the

condition worsens, pets may experience labored breathing, lethargy,

and even seizures. You can cool down an overheated pet with cold

water or towels and by offering ice chips or small bowls of water.

days. Keep dogs? heads in the car while driving; inner ear damage, lung

infections, and injury happen when man?s best friend sticks his head

out the window. Buckle up your dog with a harness or seat belt for

dogs, or a crate or carrier secured with a seat belt. And never let dogs

ride in the back of trucks. A crate in the truck bed keeps dogs from

bouncing out in an accident or being hit with debris on the road.

can be bad for dogs and cats, and alcohol is also a no-no. If your pets

get anxious or fearful around fireworks or big crowds, keep them away

from the sparklers and concerts.

your veterinarian on the best pest preventives to use for your and your

pets? lifestyle. Also, keep your animals off areas sprayed with chemicals

or insecticides, and always store fertilizers and other poisonous

substances out of their reach.