"Even the healthiest pets can suffer from dehydration, heat stroke and sunburn if overexposed to the heat", says Dr Lila Miller, ASPCA Vice President of Veterinary Outreach.

Here are some tips to help you through the summer months:

     -Know the warning signs--symptoms of overheating include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heat/respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively.

     -Pets can get dehydrated quickly so make sure they have plenty of clean fresh water. Make sure they have a shady place to get out of the sun. Be careful not to over-exercise them.

     -You've heard this before--never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. Even with the windows open your vehicle can heat up quickly. In several states this is illegal.

     -Be careful around pools. Not all dogs are good swimmers. If your dog does go in the pool, be sure to rinse it off afterward, the chlorine can dry out the skin and be harmful to its paws.

     -Make sure your house screens are tightly secured. ASPCA sees an increase of injured animals falling from windows when screens are ripped or broken.