On a 78-degree day, the temperature inside a shaded car is 90 degrees, while the inside of a car parked in the sun can reach 160 degrees in minutes. Heatstroke can kill your pet or your child in a very short time!

Please, please do not ever leave your dog or child in a parked car in the summertime or when the temperatures are warm. If you see a dog or child in a hot car, take down the plate number, make and model of the car and see if the owner can be paged. Call local authorities such as the police to see if they will free the dog or child by opening the car door.

In many jurisdictions, this is regarded as cruelty to animals and is punishable by law. In the case of a child it is certainly neglect and is punishable. Please think, it only takes but a minute to go in a store but worse, it only takes but a few minutes for your best pal or your son/daughter to die.

On a related note, all creatures require more hydration in the summer months. Frequently offer sips of cool water to be sure that everyone is getting the water they need to be healthy as the summer heat pulls great amounts of moisture from the body.

About The Author
J.R. Mercier is a freelance writer and is co-owner of Abby's Dog Gift Baskets http://www.gift-basket4you.com/ and Abby's Dog Treat Bakery. Abby's is web-based business founded on a healthy, happy, dog and dog owner.