4 tips to keep your dog cool this summer
When it’s summertime, you can expect sunshine, warm weather, and extra time outdoors with your dog. Spending all that extra time in the sun also means your dog could get very hot. Dogs don’t sweat the same way humans do so if they get too hot they can actually suffer from heat stroke, a deadly condition. Here are some tips to help keep your dog cool this summer.
Hit the beach
Everyone loves to hit the beach when it’s hot out, and it’s also a great way to help keep your dog cool. Just be sure to find lots of shady places for your dog to rest, because otherwise they may get sunburnt. You can also apply pet sunscreen to the hairless areas of your dog’s body, such as their nose and the tips of their ears. If your dog is panting a lot, drape a wet towel over them to help them cool off. If you plan on doing some swimming, be sure to pack a lifejacket for your dog. Also, don’t let your dog drink lake water or sea water. Bring along fresh, cool water for your pup to drink. Check out this blog for more tips on taking your dog swimming.
Give your dog a cool treat
When it’s hot out, you pick up some ice cream or a popsicle for yourself, but what about for your dog? Some grocery stores and pet stores carry ice cream made specifically for dogs that your pup may enjoy as a special treat. You can also give your dog ice cubes to cool off or even freeze some water with a few of your dog’s favorite freeze-dried treats mixed in. Another option is to throw a couple of your dog’s favorite toys in the freezer and use them to help keep your dog cool while playing with them.
Backyard water fun
A fun and easy way to keep your dog cool is to bring out a hose, sprinkler or baby pool and spend some time playing with your dog in the water. Some dogs love to run through sprinklers or bite the water spraying out of a hose. Other dogs are content just getting their paws wet. Some dogs will lay down in the water and relish it like it’s a special treat. No matter how your dog reacts to the water, it’s a great way to beat the summertime heat.
Protect your puppy's paws
To help keep your dog cool this summer, limit the amount of outside activities you do with your dog. If you take your dog for a walk, blacktop and pavement can get very hot very quickly. It may even get so hot that it could burn your dog’s paw pads. Make sure to check the temperature of the pavement before taking your dog for a walk and if it’s too hot, only walk your dog on grass. You can also put booties or socks on your dog’s paws to help prevent their feet from getting burned by the hot asphalt. Another option is to apply a paw balm to your dog’s feet, which will help provide a layer of protection when you’re out walking. When you’re done with your walk, paw balm can also help soothe and moisturize your dog’s irritated feet.
Read a few of our other blogs for more tips to keep your pet safe. Have a fun summer with your dog!
