Noah Johnson Daily Press Enzo, a lab-mix is ready to for a ride. When traveling with pets in the summer, it is never okay to leave them in a turned-off vehicle unattended, even if the windows are down and there is water in the car.

ESCANABA – As the temperature continues to rise, residents are heading outside to enjoy the weather. The hotter days can lead to heat exhaustion and dehydration if not prepared, and man’s best friend is not immune.

According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), 111 animals died in 2024 across the United States from enduring too much heat. 338 animals were also rescued from heat-enduring situations.

PETA clarified that those deaths and rescues are only the reported cases, as there could be dozens or hundreds more that die each year.

“More than twice as many dogs and cats reportedly died from heat-related causes in 2023 than in any other year on record–and those are just the ones that were reported. Most almost certainly aren’t,” PETA states.

Delta Animal Shelter Operation Coordinator Vonnie Bruce offered advice on the best way to make sure your four-legged friends stay healthy during the summer months.

“If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog,” Bruce said.

“The heat is the biggest factor that can affect pets in the summer months. Similar to the cold in the winter months, the best thing to do is remember that if you are too hot, so is your pet.”

According to PETA, dogs only sweat through their paw pads. They can only cool themselves by panting, making it harder for the animal to withstand the heat.

Pets, just like humans, need a reprieve from the heat.

“Even the most active dogs need a break in warmer weather,” Bruce said.

She added that it’s best to limit outdoor time when there’s high heat, and even avoid being outside if possible when there’s extreme heat.

“Keep potty breaks short and make sure to provide a place for the dog to cool down after being outside. Keep your dogs indoors when temperatures are extremely high,” she said.

With warmer temperatures, it is never okay to leave a pet in the car while the vehicle isn’t running.

“Dogs should never be left in the car in heat,” Bruce said.