The summer heat has officially hit us. I wore jeans to work today, and let me tell ya, instant regret. Luckily, I can go home and remove a few layers without spending too much time in the sun. (Bless people who work outside full time. I wouldn't survive!)

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At least we don't have to suffer alone. Our furry champions are right there with us! 

We can always change into shorts and tank tops, but what can we do to ease our animals' suffering? 

I'll tell you what you shouldn't do, and that is shaving your pet!

Yeah, that's right! Put those clippers away. Your pet's fur coat actually acts as insulation. It's a natural cooling system, according to ASPCA.

Now, don't be frightened about grooming your pet. Feel free to give them a "summer cut," just do NOT go too short or shave them completely. Animals are just as susceptible to sunburns and skin cancer as we are.

If you rather be safe than sorry and skip the haircut altogether, sleep easy knowing that dogs with thick coats naturally shed more in summer, so they have lighter coats in the hot months.

Remember to regularly brush your pet and bathe them frequently. Doing so allows for better air circulation, and therefore, thermal regulation.

I know many of us are miserable (or maybe it's just me). Either way, don't forget about your loving animals. Be pro-active. Give your pets plenty of water and push them to hang out in the shade, and whatever you do, DO NOT shave your dogs and cats.

Animals You Aren't Allowed to Have as a Pet in Rochester, Minnesota

Below are the animals that we are not allowed to own as pets here in Rochester, Minnesota according to the City of Rochester Code of Ordinances under Sec. 3-1-4. - Prohibited wild animal.

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