Red Cross warns of summer dangers for pets

NEW YORK, July 30 (UPI) -- The Red Cross is warning the 67 million dog owners in the United States that summer can be a dangerous time for their four-legged friends.

A new campaign called The Dog Days of Summer is being launched by the Red Cross to teach dog owners and caretakers about heat safety, pet first aid and CPR, the organization announced Wednesday.

The Red Cross says heat stroke, or hyperthermia, can occur in the summer when pets get severely overheated so it is important to see that they always have plenty of water and a shady area to relax in.

Never, under any circumstances, leave a pet in a parked car even if the windows are open, the organization says.

The Red Cross also advises families to make plans for their pets in the event of a disaster because its shelters are not allowed to accept pets due to health and safety regulations.

For more information on the Dog Days of Summer campaign visit www.redcross.org.