Hot cars kill dogs

The warmer weather is upon us, and it's time to start thinking about ways to keep your pooch safe and cool over summer. Dogs pant to maintain their body temperature, but they still need our help to stay cool. Like humans, dogs too can suffer from heat cramps and heat exhaustion - they just can't tell us about it. Heat stroke can even cause the death of a beloved pet.

I recently chatted with Laura from DogAid Australia, who has some important advice for preventing heat exhaustion in dogs.

NEVER leave your pet in a parked car, Laura says. Most cars (especially black cars and hatchbacks) heat up to be like a sauna, even on mild days. Always leave windows open when driving with your dog.

It's a good idea to take your dog walking during the cooler parts of the day. Provide fresh, cool water for your dog and ensure they have a cool, shady place to rest, Laura adds.

While these tips may sound obvious, some dog owners still forget about their four-legged friends and the suffering they face when it's hot outside.

Remember - if you do see an animal that appears to be suffering from heat stress in a car and the owner cannot be found, call your local RSPCA, veterinarian or police station immediately.

Have you ever seen a dog in a hot car? What do you do to keep your dog cool during summer? Share your warm weather tips with Dogs Life Dog-a-Bloggers.