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frvta.org | 99 Continued on page 118VACATION Pet-Friendly SPOTSFlorida is very pet-friendly. Many Florida places, not just campgrounds, accommodate visitors with pets, including theme parks that provide kennels, beaches and parks that allow dogs, hotels and motels that offer special pet rooms, restaurants, and dog events. Larger theme parks, such as Busch Gardens in Tampa, offer kennel services but be sure to bring your pet%u2019s vaccination record along.A site like bringfido.com lists pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, events, and activities worldwide. The county tourism board for your destination is another reliable source for planning a pet-friendly vacation. Florida is usually hot, so it is essential that you never leave your pet in the vehicle. On a 78-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can soar to between 100- and 120-degrees Fahrenheit in just minutes, and on a 90-degree day, the interior temperature can reach as high as 160 degrees in less than 10 minutes, according to Petco. Petco care centers often offer their stores nationwide as cooling centers. An animal left in a hot car can sustain brain damage or even die in as little as 15 minutes. Cracking a window does little to relieve the heat on a hot summer day. Signs of heat stress include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue. When outside, ensure your pet has access to shade, shelter, and fresh water. Dogs can get sunburned, too, so applying dog sunscreen to your dog%u2019s ears, nose, and anywhere else they have bare skin or thin fur is a good idea.Anticipate the same amount of cool water for a pet as yourself when participating in outdoor activities. Avoid letting your dog drink lake or river water that may contain bacteria or parasites. Heartworm, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes, is endemic to Florida. Plan to visit a vet before your trip for a heartworm test and pills to prevent infection.