Heat exhaustion can lead to brain damage, organ failure, and death. Here are a few tips and reminders to keep your pets safe. Don’t let them play hard on hot days and make sure they have access to fresh water. Before walking your pets, test the temperature of the pavement. If you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 10 seconds, it is too hot for your pets’ pads. Never leave your pet in a vehicle, even for “just a minute” while you run errands. Studies have shown that, even with the windows partially open, interior temperatures can rise to over 38 C in about 7 minutes at 31 C.