Keeping a large dog safe through a North Carolina summer

The NC State College of Veterinary Medicine summer tips warn never to leave a dog in a parked car, even briefly, noting that the temperature inside a car with windows rolled down can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes on an 85-degree day.

The same source says hot asphalt can burn paws, and that on hot, humid days exercise should be limited to early morning or evening, with shade and fresh water available and water carried along.

It names older or very young dogs, overweight dogs, dogs with heavy coats, short-nosed breeds and dogs with existing conditions as needing extra care.

• Watch for excessive panting, difficulty breathing, a rapid heart and breathing rate, glazed eyes, drooling, weakness or a stupor.
• Move the dog into shade or air conditioning.
• Apply cool, not cold, water.
• Contact a veterinarian as soon as you can.

Ask how the dog has handled a full summer, what its conditioning looks like and what its handler does on the hottest days.