WITH temperatures soaring, a veterinary clinic in Wythall is urging pet owners to take special measures to protect their animals.

YourVets Wythall has seen an increase in pets suffering with summer-related sicknesses, from heat stroke and sun burn to breathing difficulties and dehydration.

This year a particular concern for the Alcester Road clinic has been a rise in the number of tics and parasites due to the warmer weather.

Head of consulting Samantha Walsh said: "Whilst the summer is the perfect time to get outside and spend time with our pets, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure they’re safe and happy in the hotter weather.

Here's a handy list of tips:

1. Sun cream: Remember to apply sun lotion to ear tips and the tops of noses - particularly on white cats and dogs who can easily suffer from sunburn

2. Keep bugs at bay: Visit YourVets to purchase a bug box. A go-to-kit to ensure your pet is protected from pesky parasites.

3. Timing is everything: Don’t walk dogs in the peak of the mid-day sun. The dark pavements can get hot enough to blister the pads on their paws after just a few minutes.

4. Ventilation: Never leave your dog in a hot care - no matter how long for, it simply isn’t worth the risk.

5. Keep it cool: Keep an area of the house cool by having the curtains closed and the windows open so that your pets can get some respite. Alternatively, a cool slate tile for small furry animals works just as well.

6. Groomed to perfection: Make sure long haired animals are properly groomed or clipped so that their skin can breathe and they can easily stay cool.

"More often than not prevention is the best type of cure."

Ms Walsh added: "There are lots of symptoms to look out for if you suspect your pet might be suffering in the heat: lethargy, panting more than usual, vomiting and diarrhoea are just a few. The best advice is to take them to your local vet as soon as possible to get them checked over if you think they might be suffering."

For more information visit yourvets.co.uk.