"Heat exhaustion is when a dog’s body temperature rises above the high end of normal — above 103 degrees — because the dog’s normal mechanisms for thermoregulation and cooling (e.g. panting) are overwhelmed," Dr. Lori Bierbrier, the medical director of ASPCA Community Medicine, tells Bustle. Because of this, she explains that dogs with heat exhaustion will usually present with excessive panting in an attempt to cool down.

"Panting is the primary way that dogs cool their body," Dr. Bierbrier says. "With an early concern about heat exhaustion, remove your dog from the hot environment and let them pant out excessive heat in a controlled and cooler space, such as an air conditioned room."

Lethargy and disinterest can be a symptoms of many different health issues in dogs, but Dr. Edge says that "sudden lethargy may be an early sign your dog has heat stroke, or heat exhaustion."

If you notice your dog is acting lethargic or fatigued, Dr. Edge says one thing you can do is "wet a towel with tepid water, and place it on your dog's skin to cool them down." However, it's super important to note you should definitely use "tepid" water versus cool water, because water that's too cold can shock your pet's system, and cause hypothermia.

In addition to lethargy, Dr. Bierbrier tells Bustle your dog could be so weak due to heat exhaustion that they may collapse. If this happens to your furry friend, she says to "provide them with a cool place to lie and rest — such as a tile floor or cool concrete — where heat can disperse."

According to an article written by Dr. Alex Betzen for Westbury Animal Hospital, "In the initial period [of heat exhaustion], many dogs show some form of neurologic disease. Affected dogs often have a 'dull' or dazed attitude." If you are out with your furry friend enjoy the summer weather, but they start acting strange, that's your cue to head inside somewhere cool.

Dr. Bierbrier explains that a bright red tongue and gums are both possible signs your dog may have heat exhaustion. What's more, Dr. Edge adds that your pup's gums could appear to be a bluish color, rather than reddish. The bottom line is, any kind of gum or tongue discoloration could indicate your dog is overheating, and is in need of veterinary care, as well as a cool environment and water.

One of the first signs of heat exhaustion in your dog, Dr. Bierbrier warns, is "increased heart and respiratory rates." This symptom may be a little more difficult to pinpoint — especially if your pet is running around at the park — but it's still important to be aware of it.

Though Dr. Edge says nausea in dogs is hard to identify because it is a "self-reporting symptom," he says dogs that have an upset stomach will often excessively salivate and, of course, vomit. If the onset of nausea happens to occur while you're outside in the warm weather, or presents with these other symptoms, it could be a clue your dog has heat exhaustion.

"Definitely seek veterinary care, even if you believe you have your dog's heat stroke symptoms under control," says Dr. Edge, explaining that while you might get visible symptoms under control, your dog's core body temperature may still be elevated.

Be sure to always take precautions — like limiting outside playtime during the summer, bringing a water bottle for your dog, and never leaving them in a hot car — to avoid dealing with a heat-related emergency in the first place. Heat exhaustion is common scare for pet owners in the summer, but recognizing the signs and acting quickly can make all the difference.