Keeping your dog cool during the summer is essential for their health and comfort. Here are some effective ways to help your dog beat the heat:
- Provide Plenty of Water: Ensure your dog has access to fresh, cool water at all times. You can add ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it cooler for longer
- Avoid Midday Heat: Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day
- Shade and Shelter: Make sure your dog has access to shaded areas if they are outside. Provide a cooling mat or a raised bed to keep them off hot surfaces
- Cool Mats and Vests: Invest in cooling products such as mats, bandanas, or vests that are designed to help lower your dog's body temperature
- Swimming and Water Play: Let your dog swim in safe bodies of water or set up a paddling pool in your garden. Sprinklers can also provide a fun way for them to cool down
- Air Conditioning and Fans: Keep your home cool with air conditioning or fans. Portable fans can be directed at your dog’s resting area
- Frozen Treats: Make homemade frozen treats with dog-safe ingredients. You can freeze low-salt chicken broth, yoghurt, or puréed fruits in ice cube trays
- Grooming: Regular grooming helps remove excess fur, which can trap heat. However, avoid shaving double-coated breeds as their fur also protects them from the sun
- Limit Car Rides: Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can quickly become dangerously high.
- Cool Towels: Drape a cool, wet towel over your dog or let them lie on one. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe down their paws and belly.
- Monitor for Signs of Overheating: Watch for symptoms of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and uncoordinated movements. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cooler area and contact a vet immediately.
By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable throughout the summer.