Summer safety tips for pet owners

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The family pet is sensitive and requires some special attention during summer festivities.

The professionals at the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society have some safety tips for pet owners.

Never leave animals in a hot car, even with windows partially rolled down. The internal heat can reach one-hundred degrees in minutes.

If you bring your pet to the beach, make sure there's a shady place to rest, plenty of water and protection for their paws from hot sand. 

Another problem is the temptation for people food.  Overeating and consuming foods they don't normally eat can lead to intestinal distress and even hospitalization.   Be sure to pick up dropped food, keep garbage containers secure and let guests know about what your pet can eat.

The noise of fireworks can frighten animals into panicked behavior.  Be sure to place them in a cool, quiet room away from the noise.  Use "white noise" such as a fan, air conditioner, the television or music as a distraction.  Secure the windows.  Dogs have been known to jump through screens in fear.

If you must bring your animal to an outside event, they should be on a leash, have proper identification and should not be left with children or others who may not be able to control a frightened animal.