SAN DIEGO — The dog days of summer are here and it’s a time full of sunshine and relaxation! But many pet owners may not be aware of the threats that the season holds for their furry friends.

To keep your pets safe and healthy on this Fourth of July holiday and all summer long, the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA recommends keeping the following tips in mind:

Four tips for a safe 4th

· Fireworks can be scary and stressful for your pet! Dogs have a heightened sense of hearing so the jolts and loud noises can cause many animals to flee, looking for shelter. It is safer and less stressful for your pet if you keep them inside. If you have a crate, remember to keep it open for your pet to seek refuge in a familiar and safe place.

· Keep all doors and windows closed, and patch up any holes in your fence. If houseguests come over, make sure they know the rules about keeping your pets inside.

· Make sure all your pets are microchipped and your dogs are licensed. If your pet does go missing, these steps will help ensure a quick reunion. Contact your local shelter immediately if your pet is missing (for the cities of Oceanside and Vista, the San Diego Humane Society, North Campus handles lost and found pets).

· Barbeque and picnic fare is best enjoyed by humans. New foods or foods high in fat can irritate your pet’s digestion.

Six tips for a safe summer

· Always provide plenty of cool, clean water for your animal. When away from home, carry a thermos filled with fresh water.

· Leave your pets at home as much as possible. While you may think that they will be lonely, they will be much more comfortable in your cool home than riding in a hot car.

· If you must take your pet along for the ride, don’t leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. Even with the windows open, a parked car can quickly become a furnace. Even if the temperature outside is only 80 degrees, the temperature inside your car can quickly climb to 120 degrees.

· Don’t force your animal to exercise in hot, humid weather. Exercise your pet in the cool of the early morning or evening.

· Always provide plenty of shade for an animal staying outside the house. Bring your pet inside during the heat of the day and let them rest in a cool part of your house. If you take your dog to the beach or park, make sure you can provide a shaded spot for resting.

· Be alert for the signs of heat stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red tongue. If you believe your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, contact your veterinarian right away — it could save your pet's life.

About the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA

Serving San Diego County since 1880, the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA’s scope of social responsibility goes beyond adopting animals. The Humane Society offers San Diegans a wide range of programs and services that strengthen the human-animal bond, prevent cruelty/neglect, provide medical care and educate the community on the humane treatment of animals.

As one of San Diego’s oldest nonprofit organizations, the Humane Society has campuses in both San Diego and Oceanside and is supported solely through contributions, grants, bequests, investments, proceeds from the Muttique retail store, and small fees for services. For more information or to see current animals available for adoption, please visit HERE.