There are a few caveats with the warm weather safety chart, so be sure to factor in humidity. A nice 85⁰ day doesn’t feel quite as nice when it is accompanied by 90% humidity.

Age, breed, and obesity also play huge roles in how hot days are handled.

Brachycephalic dogs, or those with short snouts like Pugs and Boston Terriers, are particularly at risk for heat stroke because they don’t cool air as efficiently when they breathe as their long nosed cousins. If you have a brachycephalic breed, or an elderly or overweight dog, add one point to your dog’s number right off the bat.

Use this chart, along with some common sense (after all, you know your pet best!) to avoid heat stroke and make it safely through summer. One more important rule: do not use this chart to determine if it is safe to leave your dog in the car in warm weather. The temperature in your car is not the same as the temperature in your backyard. NEVER leave your dog unattended in your vehicle.

Summertime should be all about carefree fun in the sun. The last thing you want is to rush your dog to the vet for heat stroke or an unexpected injury, but it does happen. When it does, having a pet insurance plan to help cover the vet bills can help protect your family. Put your worries away and enjoy the best months of the year with peace of mind.

Information provided by Petplan pet insurance.