Tyler, Texas — Summer has officially started and this weekend's temperatures are supposed to reach the highest of the year.

With degrees in the high 90's there are specific tips to make sure your pet does not over heat in the East Texas Summer sun. 

Gayle Helms from the Smith County animal shelter told KETK what she thinks are the best ways to keep your pet comfortable this Summer.

Helms said to be sure to never leave your pet in the car when you are running errands. She said, "the best rule of thumb for that is, if you wouldn't leave a Hershey bar on your dash in your car, you really don't want to leave your children or your pets in that car."

Helms also said to be sure to leave lots of extra water out if you plan on leaving your pet outside for an extended period of time.  She gave a tip for making sure your pet's water bowl doesn't run dry.  Helms said to leave ice cubes or a frozen gallon jug of water in their water bowl.

KETK also spoke with another pet lover, Dorothy Shanks, who told KETK that she makes sure her outdoor pets have lots of shady area to relax. 

So, with the excitement of Summer don't forget about your four-legged friends  who need just as much attention in the heat as you do.