Hot weather is upon us

Looks like the next few days are going to be toasty here in the mid-Hudson Valley. With temps in the low- to mid-90s, it's going to feel like it's close to 100 degrees.

In hot weather, you need to be mindful of your pet.

I can't say it enough: If your dog can't go every single place you go, leave it at home.

How would you like it if you were told to sit in an unair-conditioned car with the window slightly open for who knows how long? Try it.

Here are a few tips from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. You can reach their Web page by clicking here.

• Always carry a gallon thermos filled with cold, fresh water when traveling with your pet.

• Street smarts: When the temperature is very high, don’t let your dog standing on hot asphalt. His or her body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn. Keep walks during these times to a minimum.

• A day at the beach is a no-no, unless you can guarantee a shaded spot and plenty of fresh water for your companion. Salty dogs should be rinsed off after a dip in the ocean.

• Provide fresh water and plenty of shade for animals kept outdoors; a properly constructed doghouse serves best. Bring your dog or cat inside during the heat of the day to rest in a cool part of the house.

• Be especially sensitive to older and overweight animals in hot weather. Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs such as bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, Lhasa apsos and shih tzus, as well as those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

• Good grooming can stave off summer skin problems, especially for dogs with heavy coats. Shaving the hair to a one-inch length—never down to the skin, please, which robs Rover of protection from the sun—helps prevent overheating. Cats should be brushed often.

• Do not apply any sunscreen or insect repellent product to your pet that is not labeled specifically for use on animals. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to neurological problems.