Are we heading into an Indian Summer with warmer days? I think most of us are hoping so. Here are some tips to keep your dog cool if we are.
When the weather gets hot, it’s important to take extra care to keep your furry friend cool and comfortable. Dogs can easily overheat and suffer from heatstroke, which can be dangerous or even deadly. Here are a few tips to help keep your dog cool during hot weather:
Provide plenty of water:
Make sure your dog has access to fresh, cool water at all times. Consider placing multiple water bowls around the house and yard to ensure that they can stay hydrated wherever they are. During hot weather or while engaging in physical activities, dogs can easily become dehydrated. Therefore, it is crucial to provide plenty of water to ensure their well-being. By making fresh, cool water readily available to your dog at all times, you can prevent dehydration. One way to achieve this is by placing multiple water bowls throughout your house and yard. This way, no matter where your dog is, they will have easy access to water and can stay hydrated throughout the day.
Create shade:
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, it’s essential to provide them with shaded areas to escape the sun. Set up a large umbrella, canopy, or provide access to a shaded porch or covered patio. This will help protect your furry friend from the harmful effects of prolonged sun exposure, such as heatstroke and sunburn. Additionally, having a shaded area will ensure your dog stays cool and comfortable during hot summer days.
When setting up a shaded area, consider using a large umbrella that provides ample shade. Choose a sturdy umbrella that can withstand wind and secure it firmly to the ground. Position it in an area where your dog frequently spends time, making sure it covers a significant portion of their outdoor space.
Alternatively, you can opt for a canopy, which offers a larger shaded area. Choose a canopy with UV protection to provide maximum sun safety for your dog. Ensure it is securely attached to the ground or a stable structure.
If you have a porch or a covered patio, make it easily accessible to your dog. Set up a comfortable bed, mat, or some cushions where your furry friend can lie down and relax in the shade. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and has sufficient airflow to keep your dog cool.
Remember, providing shade for your dog is crucial, especially during the hottest parts of the day. By setting up these shaded areas, you will help keep your beloved pet safe, cool, and protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
Limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day:
Avoid vigorous exercise sessions when temperatures are at their peak, usually in the afternoon. Instead, take your dog for walks or play games early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler. Engaging in physical activity during the hottest parts of the day is not advisable. It is recommended to avoid vigorous exercise sessions when temperatures are at their peak, usually in the afternoon. Instead, it is better to schedule your activities with your dog during cooler times, such as early in the morning or late in the evening. Taking your dog for walks or playing games during these times ensures that both you and your pet can enjoy your exercise routine without the risk of overheating or excessive heat exposure.
Use cooling products:
There are several products available on the market that can help keep your dog cool. Cooling mats, bandanas, vests, and even frozen treats can provide relief from the heat. Using cooling products can be a great way to help keep your dog cool during hot weather. One option is cooling mats, which are designed to lower your dog’s body temperature when they lay on them. These mats often use special cooling gel technology to provide a cooling effect. Another option is cooling bandanas, which can be soaked in water and then placed around your dog’s neck. The evaporation of the water from the bandana can help keep your dog cool. Cooling vests are also available, which work on a similar principle to the bandanas but cover a larger surface area of your dog’s body. Lastly, frozen treats such as dog-friendly ice pops or frozen Kong toys filled with treats can provide a refreshing and cooling treat for your furry friend. Remember that while these products can help provide some relief from the heat, it’s important to also provide shade and fresh water to ensure your dog stays cool and hydrated.
Avoid hot pavement:
Asphalt and concrete can get scorching hot during summer days, causing your dog’s paw pads to burn. Before going for walks, check the ground temperature by placing your hand on it. If it’s too hot for you, then it’s too hot for your pup. It is important to be cautious and avoid taking your dog for walks on hot pavement during summer days. This is because surfaces like asphalt and concrete can heat up rapidly and reach scorching temperatures, which can lead to burns on your dog’s sensitive paw pads. To ensure the safety of your furry friend, it is recommended to check the ground temperature before stepping outside. You can do this by gently placing the back of your hand on the pavement. If you find it too hot for your comfort, it is undoubtedly too hot for your pup as well.
Consider indoor activities:
On extremely hot days, opt for indoor activities that keep your dog entertained and cool at the same time. Puzzle toys, obedience training, or a game of indoor fetch can help your dog burn off energy without overheating. On extremely hot days, it is important to consider indoor activities for your dog that will keep them entertained and cool at the same time. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and even a game of indoor fetch are great options to help your dog burn off energy without the risk of overheating. Puzzle toys are not only mentally stimulating, but they also provide a challenge for your dog to get their treats or toys. Obedience training is a great way to engage your dog’s mind and teach them new commands or tricks. Lastly, playing a game of indoor fetch will allow your dog to get the exercise it needs without exposing the pup to the heat outdoors. Remember to always provide plenty of water and keep the indoor environment comfortable for your furry friend.
Remember, dogs rely on their humans to stay safe and healthy in hot weather. By following these tips and monitoring your dog’s behaviour, you can help prevent heat-related issues and ensure they enjoy the summer months to the fullest.
