Summer is upon us again, and we need to remember to take all precautions to avoid heat-related problems with our pets.

Please remember to have an extra-large bucket or bowl of water for dogs that stay outside.

And with all of this heat we're experiencing now, remember: Never to have your dog tied.

A simple mistake of getting a neck or leg entangled in a rope or wire could prove to be tragic. Most dogs will struggle to free themselves. Should they become entangled in this type of heat it would only take three to four minutes to raise your dog's temperature high enough to cause heat stroke.

Another thought considering heat problems: Never leave your dog in a car unattended. Even if you crack the car windows for ventilation, the temperature can soar to 135 degrees or higher in 10 minutes.

That dash into the drugstore with your dog left in the car for just a moment could prove to be fatal to your pet.

Never walk your dog after 6 a.m. or before 8 p.m. It is just too hot during this time of day. Remember that chasing the car down the street or following the four-wheeler can prove to be dangerous to your pet too. Extensive exercise in our summer heat can cause heat stroke in just a matter of minutes.

Now here are a few ideas to help your dog deal with the heat. Only allow your house dog five- to 10-minute breaks outside the house during the middle of the day. Remember to keep that large bowl of water in a shaded area for your outside pets. Buy a small wading pool and fill it with water so your dog can cool him or herself off as it chooses. Replenish the water daily to keep it fresh and cool.

Finally, you should always call your local veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has a heat-related problem. Those problems must be treated quickly at the hospital. We can't be too cautious with our pets' health during these hot summer days.

Dr. Don Palermo is a veterinarian at Bienville Animal Medical Center in Ocean Springs, Miss. Questions for this column are encouraged. Write to South Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association, 20005 Pineville Road, Long Beach, MS 39560, and include a self-addressed stamped envelope.