A s the days warm up and our attention turns to swimming, fishing, boating and other favorite ways we New Englanders spend our summers, please remember the family pets.

Dogs left chained outside run the risk of dehydration and heat stroke. Those left in parked cars are in even more danger. The temperature inside a car on a 73-degree day can reach 120 degrees in just 30 minutes and 160 degrees in 90 minutes. Animals left in cars can suffer heat stroke in just 15 minutes. Leaving the windows open is not enough - leave them home. And if they must be left outside, be sure they have shade, water in a heavy bowl that will not tip and maybe even a kiddie pool to cool off in.

Just a few minutes of our time can keep our furry family members safe and healthy.

ANGEL ROLLINS

Webster