Summertime is here again in Utah! Hot summer weather may get you out and about, exercising with your pet. The Humane Society of Utah wants to make sure you have a list of tips on how to keep your pet safe during the hot weather. Follow these tips so that you and your pet can continue to enjoy exercising regularly this summer:

- Early mornings and evening times are a good time for exercise workouts to keep you and your pet cool. You’ll avoid the summer heat of the day and still be able to get your workout in.

- Before you go out on an exercising excursion, be sure to carry a gallon thermos filled with fresh, cold water. Your pet will thank you for the nice cold drink after exercise time in the sun.

- If you take your dog out for a walk, avoid hot asphalt. Dog paws can get burned. Stick to grassy paths if possible.

- You may want to consult with your veterinarian when determining a healthy exercise regimen for your overweight pet. An overweight animal needs exercise, but be sure that it is a moderate amount of exercise to avoid overheating your pet in the summer weather.

- Summer means lawn and garden care will be on the rise. Watch out for areas that have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. If you happen to be in an area that you suspect has been sprayed with insecticides and think that your pet may have been poisoned by chemicals, contact your veterinarian at once.

- Keep an eye out for signs of heat stroke when you are exercising your animal. Symptoms of heat stroke can be lethargy, fever, rapid heart beat, vomiting or heavy panting. If your pet starts displaying these symptoms after a rigorous time exercising, contact your veterinarian.

It’s important that your pet continues to exercise and have fun in the sun, just be sure that you are aware of your pet’s needs with hot weather exercising.

For more information on how to keep your pet safe this summer or for information on Utah pet care, please visit the Humane Society of Utah web site.