The Michigan Humane Society is offering tips for keeping dogs and cats safe during streaks of hot weather.

• Never leave a dog or other animal in a parked car. Dogs can't cool down using perspiration. Instead, they pant. A dog left in a cars on an 85-degree day could suffer from 120-degree temperatures within minutes, leading to heat stroke or death.
• Bring companion animals inside. Making sure outdoor pets have shade and plenty of fresh, cool water is great but as temperatures rise, consider bringing Fido inside.
• A dog experiencing rapid panting and lethargy after being exposed to extreme temperatures, may be suffering from heat exhaustion.
• Limit strenuous activity with your dog such as jogging or taking long walks to the early morning or evening hours.  Make sure he has access to water before, during and after this activity. 
• Keep an eye on the door. Traffic in and out of the house can be a boon for a four-legged escape artist. Make sure you dog or cat wears a collar and ID tag at all times.
• If your dog is overcome by heat, immerse Spot in cool water or lay the dog or cat on cool, shaded grass, pouring cold water over him. Call your veterinarian immediately.