15 Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

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With summer in full swing, you must prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being by taking proactive measures to prevent overheating. Dogs are especially vulnerable to heat stroke, which can be life-threatening if not prevented promptly. We’ve put together a list of 15 hacks that will help you keep your pets happy and cool.

Provide Plenty of Fresh Water

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Always ensure your dog can access fresh, cool water indoors and outdoors. To maintain a cool water temperature, you might want to consider adding ice cubes to their bowl. Portable water bottles for pets are great for walks or outings. You can hydrate dogs using a spray bottle by directly spraying water into their mouths.

Avoid Midday Walks

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The midday sun can be scorching, which can make it dangerous for your dog to be outside. Go for early morning or late evening walks when temperatures are more relaxed. Asphalt and concrete can become unbearably hot and burn your dog’s paws. Test the footpath with your hand; if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Shaded paths are safer alternatives.

Create a Cool Resting Area

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Designate an excellent spot in your home where your dog can relax away from the heat. Fans or cooling mats can help keep this area comfortable. Avoid leaving your dog in confined spaces without ventilation, like a garage or shed. If your dog enjoys being outside, provide a shaded area with a cooling bed. 

Be Mindful of Breeds and Health Conditions

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Certain breeds of dogs with health conditions are more susceptible to heat stroke. Breeds, like Bulldogs and Pugs, have more difficulty breathing in hot weather. Older dogs, especially those with health issues, also need extra care. Monitor them for signs of overheating and then adjust their activity levels and environments to keep them safe.

Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

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Even with windows cracked, a parked car can become a deadly oven in minutes. Leaving your dog in a hot car is risky, even briefly. Your dog’s life can be in danger when temperatures reach dangerously high levels. If you can’t bring your pet, it’s best to leave them at home, where they’re safe and relaxed.  

Utilize Cooling Products

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Cooling vests, collars, and mats can provide immediate relief from the heat. Some products are designed to be soaked in water before use, offering an extra burst of coolness. Regularly checking and refreshing these items ensures they remain effective. Such tools are particularly useful during outdoor activities or when your dog needs to rest.

Watch for Signs of Overheating

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Heavy panting and a bright red tongue are early signs of heat stroke. More severe symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and confusion. If you notice these, move your dog to a cool area and offer water. Immediate veterinary attention is important if the symptoms persist.

Adjust Your Dog’s Diet

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Try feeding your dog smaller and more frequent meals to keep them cool. Dense meals generate more body heat, which would, in turn, make it harder for your dog to stay comfortable. Incorporating wet food into dry kibble increases their hydration. Treats can also be frozen for a cooling snack.  

Use Fans and Air Conditioning

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Ensure your house stays at a perfect temperature, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Set up fans to provide a cross breeze to improve ventilation. If air conditioning isn’t available, consider a cooling pad or gel mat for your dog to lie on.  

Plan Indoor Activities

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Keeping your dog active and entertained indoors helps avoid the heat. Playing puzzles and participating in indoor training sessions keep them active. Set up a safe play area where they can move around without overheating.  

Groom Regularly but Avoid Shaving

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By brushing them, you can reduce extra fur and enhance the blood flow around their skin. It’s not a good idea to shave your dog’s coat because it can weaken their normal insulation and make them more susceptible to sunburn. In place, think about giving long-haired breeds a trim.  

Apply Dog-friendly Sunscreen

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Dogs can get sunburns just as people can if they don’t wear enough protection. You must take extra precautions to protect breeds with short or white hair and pink ears from the sun’s rays because they are more vulnerable. It is vital to apply sun lotion designed specifically for dogs to their sensitive parts, such as their nose, lips, belly, and tips of their ears, and to keep them out of the sun during the warmest portion of the day.

Schedule Regular Vet Check-ups

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Regular vet visits ensure your dog’s health is monitored during the summer. Vets can provide specific advice tailored to your dog’s breed and health status. They can also identify early signs of heat-related issues before they become severe. Keeping up with vaccinations and flea prevention is equally important.  

Use Wet Towels for Cooling

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Applying wet towels to your dog’s body helps lower their temperature. Focus on areas with less fur, like the belly and paws, for maximum cooling effect. Rewet the towels frequently to maintain their cooling properties. Alternatively, a gentle spray with cool water can provide relief. 

Exercise with Caution

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Instead of strenuous activities, opt for short walks, swimming, or play sessions in the early morning or late evening. Continuously monitor their energy levels and stop if they seem overheated. Note that exercise routines can be adjusted to prevent heat-related stress.

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