Most of us will have plenty of measures already in place to keep cool as the weather heats up.

But have we considered the comfort of our pets during hotter seasons?

In the last week of spring temperatures in the high 20s and even earlier 30s have not been uncommon in the Highlands. According to the Bureau of Meteorology the temperature recorded at Moss Vale on November 21 and 22 hit 30.6 and 30.3 respectively.

The warmer conditions are expected to continue with the forecast for the final three days of spring in the Highlands suggesting temperatures will extend in to the mid to high 20s. And the longer term forecast is for the warm weather to continue.

Clearly it is time to bring the summer cloths to the front of our wardrobe, make sure the air conditioning is in good working order, get the swimming pool in tip top condition or check that we have enough fans.

Drinking plenty of water will help keep us hydrated and further ensure greater comfort, while the use of sunscreen and not spending too much time under the direct hit of the sun are equally important.

As far as keeping cool is concerned we are largely the masters of our own destiny.

But our pets don’t have the same control in keeping cool. There is little doubt that if we are feeling the heat then so are our pets.

They rely on the common sense and care of their owners to ensure they have the creature comforts to cope with the warmer weather. It is essential for pet owners to provide the best conditions to keep their furry, feathered and finned loved ones cool.

And the key considerations in this responsibility is to ensure they have access to shade, plenty of water, they are not left in direct sunlight (especially in the case of fish bowls and bird cages) and those with heavy coats get a good trim before it gets too hot.

A wading pool for pooches and an ice cube or two in the water bowl to keep it cool will further ensure their summer comfort.

And while a walk is a favoured activity for most dogs be mindful about when you stride out. Choose a cooler part of the day and remember that concrete, roads and pavers can become extremely hot under foot for a bare-footed pooch.

Quite simply if the conditions are too hot for you then your pets will also be feeling the heat and they are relying on you to help them get cool.