As summer approaches, many pet owners are looking forward to enjoying the sunny weather and engaging in different outdoor activities with their precious furry friends.
Unfortunately, dogs overheat a lot more quickly than people do. If a pet were to stay under the scorching sun for a long time, it can lead to serious illnesses like heat stroke.
However, this doesn’t mean your canine friend can’t join you for some fun under the sun. The good news is that there are a few ways you can keep them cool all summer long.
Whether you’re staying home or going out, read on to learn how to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during the hotter months of the year:
Have Your Pup Wear a Damp Bandana
To prevent your dog’s body from overheating, you’ll need to keep their temperature down. One easy way to do this is to get custom dog bandanas and soak them in cold water.
Then, wring them out before wrapping the bandana around your dog’s neck. This will keep the accessory right on top of your dog’s torso, and the soaked bandana will provide them with a nice cooling sensation.
Maintain a Cool Temperature at Home
Whenever it’s too hot outside, your dog will likely head into your home to seek refuge from the heat. Given this, make sure you can provide your beloved canine with a cool and comfortable place to rest.
You can, for instance, set up a fan in the room your dog spends the most time in. If there’s a lot of sunlight streaming in through the room’s windows, try drawing the curtains closed to keep the heat out.
Set Up a Cooling Mat
Is it still too hot inside your home? Consider preparing a cooling mat your dog can comfortably rest on. If you don’t own one, don’t worry, as you can make a homemade version.
All you need to do is soak a large towel with cold water, then wring out the excess water. Once that’s done, simply set the damp towel down on the floor. Your pup can then lie on the towel to stay cool and comfortable.
Prepare Plenty of Drinking Water at Home
Whether your dog prefers to stay indoors or outdoors during the summer, make sure they always have access to cool and clean drinking water.
This will help your pup stay hydrated which, in turn, reduces their risk of suffering from heatstroke. If your pup isn’t the type to drink a lot of water, you can add it to their food instead to ensure they still get the benefits of staying hydrated.
Bring Drinking Water When Going Out
Whenever you take your dog out for a walk or an outing, remember to pack plenty of drinking water for your pet so they can hydrate on the go.
Make sure to bring a portable pet bowl or collapsible cup that your pup can drink from as well.
Give Your Fur Baby Some Frozen Treats
Another way to keep your pet cool and comfortable is by providing them with some frozen treats. You can, in fact, make them some delicious puppy ice pops with a few easy steps.
First, combine some water, yogurt, and mashed fruits in a bowl. Next, fill up an ice cube tray with the mixture you’ve just made. Leave the tray in the freezer for a few hours or overnight.
Once the mixture is frozen, pop the cubes out of the tray, and you’ll have some yummy treats to give your dog!
Host a Doggie Pool Party
Is swimming your favorite summer activity? If so, why not let your dog can enjoy a refreshing dip in a pool, too?
That said, you may not be able to bring them to public swimming pools, as some establishments don’t allow pets on their premises. Fortunately, you can always set up your own shallow wading pool at home.
When buying a pool for your pet, opt for one made of molded plastic rather than one that’s inflatable. The former is more durable and won’t be easily destroyed by your pup’s sharp claws.
Once you’ve got your pool, set it up in a shaded section of your yard. There, your fur baby can splash around and cool down to their heart’s content. If you know other dog owners, why not invite them and their pets over, too?
That way, you and your pets can enjoy a fun pool party together.
Summer is a great time to enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities with you and your precious pup. Keep in mind, however, that your dog may not be able to withstand the heat as well as you do.
Fortunately, the advice mentioned above can help keep your furry friend cool and comfy all day long. Give the tips above a try and your pet will be sure to have a fun and safe summer.
