SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Temperatures in Western Mass have reached 90 degrees for a third day, meaning the region is officially in a heatwave.

The heat can be dangerous for you, and even more dangerous for your pets.

Most pets still need some fresh air, but experts at the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center (TJO) in Springfield say timing and precautions are everything.

“It does not take long for them to start feeling that distress, so active play in this heat is just not a good idea,” said Marianne Moner, education coordinator at TJO. “Wait for another day. It doesn’t have to be every day that they get that kind of play.”

Moner is surrounded by pets every day. She says there are steps you can take to keep your pets healthy during this weather.

For starters, dogs cannot be left outside unattended for longer than 15 minutes. Also, you shouldn’t ever leave animals by themselves in a vehicle as they could suffer distress, heat stroke, or even death. In addition, make sure they always have fresh water available.

If you do head outside, keep pets on grass rather than pavement. The hot asphalt can burn their paws.

If you see your pet panting, that’s a huge warning sign and Moner says it means your pet needs a vet immediately.

“If they’re lying down on the floor, it cools their stomach,” she said. “There are cooling pads you can buy, and that’s different for every pet and pet owner, but it’s not a bad option.”

Moner advises you to keep your pets indoors if you can.

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