Ah... summer is here! The birds are chirping, the bees are swarming, and, of course, the sun beating down mercilessly on those who dare to venture outside. For human beings, we are knowledgeable of and can perform several options of protection against the heat. But what of our four-legged companions? Just like us, the constant presence of heat can cause serious damage to our beloved animal friends. However, in a way that is unlike human beings, our critters are unable to tell us when it is too hot for them to be outside.

As such, located below is a list of precautions that we can take to make sure our pets are safe with us during our fun in the sun.

1. Always make sure that fresh water is available.

Water is a vital part in every living organism's life, including our pets. Just like us, without the correct amount being replenished in their daily activities, dehydration can occur. In warmer temperatures, the risk of illness regarding the depletion of water is heightened. As such, it is important to provide enough water to satisfy their needs, especially if they are placed outside on a continual basis. If not, more serious conditions, like the failure of organs or death, can become an unwanted fate.

2. Make sure adequate shade is provided for some needed "cool down" time.

Direct sunlight can be extremely harmful to both you and your pet if experienced for a prolonged amount of time. If your furry creature frequents the outdoors more often than you do, it is important to provide a darkened area for them to rest under. These areas, which can be the cover of trees or tarps, block unwanted rays from severely burning skin (yes, even our animals experience sun burns) and are usually somewhat of a cooler temperature than the surrounding areas.

3. Check on them often.

If your animals are accustomed to staying outside for more than a few minutes at a time, make sure to peek at them every so often. As temperatures rise, water evaporates and thus needs to be replenished often. In addition, your pets may need to come inside if it becomes too hot for them on the other side of the door. As such, it is vital to know how they are doing at all times in order to ensure their safety or make sure, if they need your help, that you are able to provide aid in a timely manner.

4. Protect their paws from hot surfaces.

The effects of the sun do no limit themselves to heating the air or making us sweat at uncomfortable rates. If exercising your pet in the form of a walk is common, make sure that the ground is not too hot for their paws. Just like our skin, the pads located at the bottom of your pet's feet are extremely sensitive to the elements. Often, we wear shoes so that we do not feel the heat, unlike our walking companions. In order to do this, a common tip is to put the back of your hand on the surface you would like to walk on and if you are unable to hold it for a few seconds, then it is too hot for your pet.

5. Do not leave your pet in an unattended vehicle.

Just because you open a window or are only gone for a few minutes does not leave your pet protected against the dangers of the sun. For every minute that passes, the temperature in a vehicle can rise doubly so. From this, it can take only a matter of a few minutes for the heat in the car to reach a level that is unhealthy, or even dangerous, to your pet as heatstroke and dehydration are too often the fates of those who are left in these situations.

Summer is a time for fun and excitement, and our pets are always ready to experience it with us. From these tips, maybe we can make their time during these months a more healthy, and happy, experience.