DENVER -- June 18, 2008

Summertime, and the living is......hot.

Yup, it's that time of year again; the time I need to remind you about dogs and heat. I chided you last summer about leaving poor Rover in the car while you ran errands, and judging by the number of pooches I've seen in cars at the store recently, it's time for a reminder.

It's a lot hotter than you think it is.

The temperature in a car rises 19 degrees in 10 minutes, 29 degrees in 20 minutes, and 43 degrees in an hour. So, if it's 75 degrees outside when you pop into the store for a carton of ice cream, in just 10 minutes it's 94 degrees in your car; in 20 minutes (you decided to get something for dinner too) it's 104 degrees, and if you lost track of time (you stopped to chat with a neighbor and then the checkout line was long), an hour has passed and the interior of your car is 128 degrees.

Poor Rover! At those temperatures he can suffer heat stroke, permanent brain damage and even death.

And if you think leaving the windows cracked will make any difference, think again. Studies show that the temperature inside a car increases the same, even with the windows open. So PLEASE do Rover a big favor and leave him home where it's cool and he can nap, chew on a Kong stuffed with treats or watch his favorite soap opera.

But Parker, you say, what about traveling with Rover? We don't want to leave him home, we want to take him with us on vacation. Speaking as a dog who travels quite a lot, I have to admit that vacations can be a blast! So, here are some helpful hints for get-aways with Rover:

If Rover is uneasy riding in the car he might feel more comfortable in his crate. Just make sure he's getting enough air to keep cool. Keep water handy for you and Rover at all times.

If Rover's not in his crate, you might consider a canine seat belt to keep him from becoming "Rover the Flying Dog" if you have to stop suddenly or (Dog forbid) get into an accident.

Carry copies of Rover's health information, vet's name and phone number, rabies and city license numbers and a recent photograph. Just In Case.

Check his ID tag: is the information current and legible? Does it have a your cell phone number and/or your vet's number? A new tag is easy to make and costs less than $10. Maybe it's time to splurge on a new collar too.

Pack Rover's duffle bag with a toy or two, enough food for the duration (this is not the time to try out a new dog food purchased at a convenience store in End of the World State Park), a dish, an extra leash, any medication he's taking and lots of poo bags.

Call ahead to ensure the hotels you've selected accept pets. Some have size restrictions or charge a fee, so be sure to ask if they have any special requirements. Google "dog-friendly travel" and you'll find web sites with information about dog-friendly hotels, dog parks and activities you can do with Rover.

If you're flying with Rover, call the airline and discuss the specifics, including charges and reservations, because each airline is different. Small pets can sometimes fly in the cabin with you in a crate under the seat, but larger pets will have to be crated and fly as (get this) "checked baggage." *SHUDDER* Either way, make sure the crate is airline-approved. It must be clearly labeled LIVE ANIMAL and identified with your name, address, phone numbers, the dog's name, and any special instructions. Put a non-tip bowl in the crate filled with ice cubes in that will melt slowly and keep Rover hydrated. You will also need to get a health certificate from your vet no more than 7 days before your flight.

Most airlines have restrictions on transporting animals if the temperature is too hot, so take that into consideration when you book your flights.

International travel is even more restrictive, and much depends on the country you're traveling to in addition to the airline's policies. Re-entry into the US is another issue. Do your homework.

A word to the wise: don't feed Rover before air travel. Really, trust me on this. Everyone (Rover, you, the person in the seat next to you, the airline staff) will be MUCH happier if you wait until you get to your destination. A little water is OK.

If you'd like more tips, tune in to 7News from 7-9 a.m. this Saturday, June 21. Dr. Tadros from Evans East Animal Hospital will be the featured guest speaking about traveling with your pets.

Chow for now!

Parker

Questions or comments for Parker? Send them to Call7ForHelp@TheDenverChannel.com.

Would you like more information about Canine Companions for Independence or puppy raising? Call 1-800-572-BARK or go to CCI for details.