"If it's hot for you, it's going to be just as hot, if not hotter, for your pet."

This, according to Kyle Jahns, Communications Coordinator for the Winnipeg Humane Society (WHS), is the general guiding principle all pet owners should keep in mind over the course of the summer.

"Pets don't have the ability to sweat as a human does," Jahns continued. In fact, animals keep cool by panting, though they are always more suceptible to overheating on exceptionally hot and humid days, and at a much faster pace than usual. "It can lead to heatstroke, and other serious issues with your pet that you really want to avoid."

"Panting is a good thing, it does mean that they're cooling themselves down," explained Jahns. He emphasized, however, the imporance of monitoring your pet's panting, and keeping a close eye on your animals for signs of heatstroke or overheating, which can include excessive panting, glazed eyes, pink or purple colouring of the tongue, and general lessening of alertness and responsiveness.

If your pet is exhibiting the above symptoms, it is extremely important to make sure you help them to cool down by bringing them inside from the heat, having a bowl of fresh water easily accessible throughout the day, and providing time for them to take breaks in the shade throughout the day. Sunscreen for your pet, available for purchase from your local pet store, is also an option to protect your four-legged pals from the heat of the summer

Other tips to ensure your pets are keeping cool this summer include avoiding asphalt, which can lead to burnt paw pads due to heat absorbtion, and refraining from activities such as rollerblading or cycling with your pet on warmer days. Walks taken in the morning or evening, when the sun is not at it's peak and the overall outdoor temperature is cooler, and allowing your pet to spend time on the grass rather than the pavement are also ways that you can ensure well-being for your furry friend over the summer months.

Finally, if your pet is showing signs of becoming overheated, Jahns recommends a visit to your veterinarian as quickly as possible.

"It can lead to heatstroke, it can lead to organ damage, and you don't ever want to see that in your pet."