Summer is a dangerous time, with scorching temperatures, the harmful rays of the sun, and unpredictable weather, but not just for people, for dogs, too.

Dog owners need to take extra precautions in the summer, especially around the Fourth of July weekend, with the noise pollution from fireworks, and the extreme sun and temperatures that come in the middle of the summer.Everyone has probably heard by now not to leave dogs in a hot car, but that's not all. Veterinarian at Highland Animal Hospital in Slatington Dr. Don Lowe says there's much more dog owners need to be worried about."Temperatures don't have to be in the car, it can be outdoors, too. Dogs need shade and water because they use the evaporation from panting to keep cool. They need water," Lowe said. "It's better to keep them indoors on a hot day."Dr. Mike Nelson of the Mahoning Valley Animal Hospital says it's dangerous "Taking any dog in a car on a hot day. Be careful, even with the windows down."Dog owners should also keep an eye on their dogs around any firework displays."It's something they hear infrequently. Dogs' hearing is superior to humans, and they don't know where it's coming from," Lowe said.As for keeping dogs calm during fireworks, there really is no good answer.Nelson said, "What works on one dog doesn't always work on the other. Some dogs have a genuine fear of fireworks. I've seem some dogs go crazy, even destroy stuff."Treatments he's tried and suggested include sedating dogs, thunder shirts, and oral medication including Benadryl and Xanax. Some of the oral medications take about an hour to kick in, so dog owners would need to time it right."There is no real solution," Nelson said.Before trying any of these treatments, consider contacting a local veterinarian and take precautions.So while you're relaxing by the pool on a hot day, or enjoying a beautiful fireworks display this weekend, remember to keep an eye on your furry little friends.