PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- With it heating up outside, it's important to keep your pets safe in the summer heat.
There are some risk factors that show pets are susceptible:
- lightly pigmented skin
- white fur, short fur
- sunbathing
- certain medications
Here are some ways to prevent sunburn in pets:
- avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
- UV protective clothing
- Use sunscreen-highest SPF or instant spray
Here are some things that cause heatstroke:
- leaving a pet in a car
- exercising in hot, humid weather
- lack of shade or shelter
- short nose breeds
- heavy coated breeds
- medical conditions
- prior history of heatstroke
- not acclimated to heat
You can help cool dogs down with water hoses, too.