The Ruff Report: Ordinary household gadget can be deathtrap for pets

Every house and apartment has them, we enjoy them and use them every day. But this ordinary household gadget that lights up our lives so much also can have a dark side, because it can easily become a deathtrap for pets.

The Hunt of Her Life: A book about a rescue dog that will touch your hear

This seemingly harmless gadget is a window, and when left open, it can result in a curious pet jumping to its death or being severely injured, according to animal welfare experts. And this danger, best known as high-rise syndrome, is most likely to happen in warmer weather when unsuspecting pet parents open windows for a breath of fresh air.

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The Ruff Report: Simple ways to keep pets comfy in hot weather

Pet parents can take some simple actions to help their dogs better cope with hot weather, an animal welfare official says.

Careful planning of outdoor activities, such as walks and hikes, and proper grooming can go a long way toward keeping your dog comfortable in hot weather, says Gail Furtado, president of Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River, Mass.

The Hunt of Her Life: A book about a rescue dog that will touch your hear

"Either go for walks early morning or later evening when it is cooler, Ms. Furtado told MySetterSam.com in an interview. "Swimming is a good summer day activity, as long as your dog knows how to swim (not all dogs know how to swim)."

The Ruff Report: For dogs, heat stroke really is no sweat

A sunny summer day may seem perfect to you for a walk in the park or along a sandy beach, but these kinds of seemingly delightful days can be quickly turn into a death trap for playful dogs, a leading animal welfare agency warns.

The Hunt of Her Life: A book about a rescue dog that will touch your hear

Even short walks along hot pavement, attending outdoor events and sitting inside automobiles - even with windows open - can quickly lead to deadly heat stroke for dogs, who are especially susceptible to it because they lack sweat glands and can only pant to cool down, according to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.