Important to make sure pets stay cool in heat, too

In extreme temperatures, pets don't like the heat either. They need special care to stay cool, just like you and I.

Animal services and other officials in the Triangle say they've gotten lots of calls about animals in hot cars. If your animal is going to go for a ride, you've got to keep the air conditioning on and you should stay in the car, too.

Deputies also tell us the heat of the pavement can be too much for a dog's paws. You should always check the pavement with your hand first. If it's uncomfortable for you, it's going to be too hot for your dog.

Officials also said if you do see a pet in a car during this heat wave, you shouldn't break into the car. Instead, call them and they'll respond quickly. Deputy Melinda Hester explained to us what it will look like if an animal is showing signs of distress:

"If you notice a dog in the vehicle and you see that dog is very restless and moving around or attempting to get under a seat or in the shade, it's getting very hot in that vehicle," Hester said. "It's important to remember if you see a pet in distress, the things that you need to consider ... do you need to call the authorities and, if you have access to that pet, what can you do to cool the pet off?

In the state of North Carolina you can be charged with animal cruelty if your pet dies while in a hot car. In some counties, you can be fined just for leaving your pet in a hot car for a short time.