Starved Rock and Matthiessen state park officials are warning visitors not to bring their pets to the parks on days warmer than 85 degrees.
Park officials announced Sunday on Facebook a dog died on one of the trails from heat stroke.
"Heat can kill our furry friends or cause medical complications through heat exhaustion and heat stroke," officials said in the post. " ... This happens all too often during the summer months at state parks and national parks throughout the United States."
Visitors bringing dogs on the trails should bring water for them, a water bowl, leash and bags for waste. There are dog bag stations available in the visitor center, at Matthiessen Dells and the Starved Rock Lodge parking lot trail to French canyon, according to officials. Water bowls are available for rent at the visitor center as well as leashes.
Know the warning signs of heat stroke or exhaustion in dogs:
• heavy panting
• lethargy
• profuse salivation
• lack of coordination
• rapid pulse
• vomiting
• red gums and tongue
• diarrhea