Are you ready to care for your pets when it gets hot out? Here are some key things you should keep in mind for pet safety this summer.

You've heard it said before, but it bears repeating: Don't leave your dog in the car. Even with the windows down on a mild, sunny day, the car interior can get hot within minutes. The American Veterinary Medical Association says hundreds of pets die each year from overheating in cars. The inside of your car can get up to 40 degrees hotter than the outside temperature. Also, it can be unsafe if your dog is not riding properly in your car and in some states, it's illegal to ride around with unrestrained pets in the car because they can become a distraction.

Warmer weather often means more time spent outside and letting in fresh air. And some pets ━ such as birds and cats ━ are eager to get out. Rabbits, ferrets, and even guinea pigs are quick pets that might try to get away if they have the chance. During the spring and summer, dogs and cats that are not spayed or neutered may be even more tempted to escape their boundaries, as they smell other pets in heat.

Pets of all sizes and species need water to stay healthy and hydrated. During the summer, it's much more likely that your pet will become dehydrated if it doesn't have an available water source. A lack of water can lead to serious health issues, including heat stroke or overheating. When walking your pet, keep in mind that their feet can burn on concrete. On hot days, you may want to keep walks and park playtime short to avoid the risk of overheating.

Watch for signs of allergies in your pet. You might notice watery eyes, skin rashes, ear infections, eye infections, coughing, sneezing, vomiting, swelling or other problems if your pet has an allergy. Allowing allergic symptoms to continue may lead to serious problems, such as loss of hearing or skin infections. Talk to your vet about allergy medications your pet could take or solutions to help ease the symptoms.

Pest infestations are a serious pain and can be more likely to occur as the weather warms. Not only will your pet be uncomfortable with the unwelcome guests, but you could face a home infestation that takes more work to resolve. Always keep your pet up to date with important vaccinations and preventive solutions to keep away pests likely to be attracted to your pet.

Taking care of your pets is an important role, since they are dependent on you. Understanding the different challenges of each season is part of being a great pet owner. Adjust as the weather shifts, so you can support your pets' needs year-round. If you aren't sure what to watch for, ask your vet for advice on potential seasonal threats or additional care you might need to provide.