CHARLOTTE -- When the weather stays blistering hot, it's important to keep watch over your pets. 

"If its 80 out, its going to be well over 100 in a car, even with the windows cracked. Recently responding to a lot of calls for service," said Melissa Knicely of Charlotte Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control. 

Across the country, rising temperatures are causing pups to get dehydrated everywhere from the local park to hiking trails. 

Knicely advises walking and exercising either early in the morning or during the evening hours.

Thankfully, ample greenways throughout the state provide lots of shade for dog walking, but be mindful of the pavement.

"The backside of your hand, if you cannot hold it on the pavement for more than five seconds its too hot for their paws," explained Knicely.

Also keep watch for heatstroke. The Humane Society says signs include a rapid heartbeat, fever, tiredness, and difficulty breathing.