As the warm weather kicks up a notch, everyone wants out of the house to enjoy the beautiful dog days of summer - pets included.

While spending more time outdoors can be a great source of fun and fitness, remember that hot weather is not always easy on our pets. To help your pet get the most out of summer adventures, you'll want to keep your pet safe and healthy in the summer heat.

Here are seven tips for keeping your pet cool and comfortable all summer long.

Provide lots of water and shade.

You get parched on hot summer days, and so does your pet! So, if you're refueling, make sure you're keeping them hydrated as well. Also, be sure to find some shady spots available for breaks while on your summer adventures. Pets should always have access to ample fresh water, but it's even more imperative during warm weather.

Educate yourself about heatstroke.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment by your veterinarian. Symptoms include:

• Exaggerated panting.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• High fever.
• Vomiting.
• Staring.
• Anxious expression.
• Warm, dry skin.

If your pet shows any of these signs, or you suspect your pet has heatstroke, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.

Stock up on refreshing pet ice cream.

You know your pet deserves the best. You also understand that the best treat to have on a hot summer's day is ice cream. But play it safe, and don't feed your fur baby human soft serve.

Instead, try a pet-friendly option, like Pooch Creamery Ice Cream, or make some of your own. Check out these pet-safe ice cream recipes here!

Make a frozen treat bowl.

If you want to keep your pets occupied and refreshed, a frozen treat bowl is a perfect solution.

Freeze kibble or treats in a water and chicken stock mixture and let them go to town. The chicken flavor will keep them interested until they get to the good stuff. Just be sure to keep this one outside.

Find a cooling mat.

Dogs and cats alike love to stretch out in the warm summer sun, but they can quickly become overheated. Make basking more enjoyable for your pet by getting them a cooling mat. Put it in your refrigerator at night, take it out the next day, and have your pet chill on it.

Protect those paws.

Did you know your dog has built-in cooling mechanisms? The bottom of your dog's paws and the spaces between their toes function to keep them cool. Splashing around in baby pools full of water or hosing down the driveway and sidewalk can make a big difference.

And remember that walking on hot surfaces like asphalt can be super dangerous. A good rule of thumb when it comes to the hot pavement is your thumb. Try touching the ground you are planning to have your dog walk on - if it is painful or uncomfortable for you, go somewhere else.

Check out your local doggie daycare.

Doggie daycare offers many benefits that make life easier for you while providing your fur baby with a safe and stimulating environment. Not only does doggie daycare promote socialization, but it also decreases separation anxiety and implements a fitness routine. In addition, the best doggie daycares provide refreshing pool parties for their furry friends.

Whether it's running in our play yards, socializing with friends, joining in on a bubble party, or just lounging by the pool, College Road Doggie Daycare is the place for all your pup's wants and needs. Summer is a wonderful time of year for the entire family to spend time outdoors together. With these ideas, your pet can stay safe and cool for every activity under the sun.