Perfect beach weather for humans can cause stress for pets.
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Temperatures in the Shoalhaven have begun to venture towards the 30 degree mark , which can cause man's best friend significant discomfort, including heat stress and in extreme cases, death.
While most people know not to leave dogs in cars, and make sure they access to shade and water, the Australian summer can still be tough on them.
Unlike people, dogs don't regulate their body temperature by sweating, they do it by panting.
Panting swaps the dog's hot breath for nice cool air. But if air temperatures outside the dog are too hot, this system doesn't work very well, and the dog can overheat. Heat stress in dogs can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and seizures.
If your temperature is rising just thinking about your beloved pooch suffering, there are some simple solutions.
The Shoalhaven Animal Shelter has a whole pack of dogs to keep cool, and Kathryn Edwards shared some of their top tips.
Top of the list was frozen treats - ice cube sized for smaller four-legged friends, and ice-cream bucket sized for big dogs.
A clam shell filled with cold water is great for dogs that enjoy a dip. For those who aren't water lovers, a misting system can be set up cheaply.
"We have some hose set up with misting sprinklers from Bunnings," Ms Edwards said.
"If you're worried a dog may be overheating, cold wet towels applied to the large veins under their back legs can help.
"If you're worried, take them straight to the vet."
She said it was a good idea to do a quick "hand test" of concrete surfaces before taking the dog for a walk.
"If it's too hot to hold your hand against for five seconds or so, it's too hot for your dog's feet," she said.
She suggested walking dogs early in the morning or later in the evening, or walking dogs on grass.
