Summer’s almost here and temperatures are rising fast! It’s time to sweat (or hide in the air conditioning). But your dog can’t sweat, and your cat only sweats between his toes. So, how do you tell if your pet is starting to get overheated? It’s not quite the same with them as it is for us, but there are signs that will seem obvious, once you know them.

The rising temperatures signal the fun summer months of backyard barbecues, vacations and more time spent outside (with a cool drink in hand). But, the scorching days of summer can also present unique hazards for your dog—and dogs in your care.

For many cats, the outside world looks like a pretty amazing place to be. With birds, chipmunks, fresh air, and so much more just beyond the window, it should come as no surprise that many indoor cats want to be outdoor cats. However, if your cat keeps trying to sneak out and seems happier when they do manage to bolt out the door, forcing them to stay inside might seem cruel. As veterinarians, we cannot decide whether or not to let your cat outside for you. We can, however, provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Dear pet owner,

We get it—you’re busy and you’re budget conscious. And we can even understand why you’d think about asking your neighbor’s teenage daughter or checking one of those Uber-like sites to find a pet sitter when work or travel keeps you from your pets. And while we get it, and while we can understand your desire to find a quick (and cheap) pet-care solution, we urge you to stop and think about your pet.