Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool in Summer
How to keep your dog cool
As the sun is shining more brightly and the temperatures begin to soar, it's crucial to take extra precautions when it comes to looking after your beloved four-legged friend. Dogs are susceptible to the dangers of hot weather, including heatstroke and dehydration. To ensure your pup stays cool, comfortable, and healthy during the scorching summer months, we have compiled a list of top tips for safely caring for your dog in hot weather!
Hydration Station
Keeping your pooch hydrated is so, so important during the hot weather. Ensure that fresh, cool (NOT COLD) water is readily available for your dog throughout the day. Place bowls inside and outside (in the shade) and if you’re heading out be sure to bring water with you, and maybe a collapsible bowl!
Keep it Chill
Adjusting your doggos’ exercise routine is essential in the summer season. Avoid walking during the hottest hours of the day; walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening. Or simply take a day off from walking altogether, better safe than sorry!
Throw Some Shade
If you and your pup are chilling in the garden, make sure you’ve got plenty of shade! Canopies, gazebos, awnings, pergolas, sunbrellas, whatever you’ve got on hand will give your pooch somewhere to hang out when the sun’s getting too much! If you’re chilling inside, crack the windows, close the curtains and get those fans and aircon blowing!
No Hot Cars!
We all know by now that dogs do not belong in cars, but it bears repeating! Never leave your pup in the car, even for a short amount of time as temperatures rise quickly, even if it may be overcast outside. If you’ve got errands to run, best leave your doggo at home!
Protect Those Paw Pads
Hot ground poses a big risk to your dogs’ feetsies! Little booties are always an option if you’re outside with your dog, but again, we recommend saving those walks for the cooler hours. Keep your doggo on the grass or in the shade as much as possible! Don't forget to keep your pups' nose and toes moisturised to prevent them from getting chapped and cracking!
Cool your Jets
There’s plenty of ways to keep your pooch cool in the beating sun. Wet towels, cooling mats and frozen treats always make for an effective coolest method. If you’re spending the evening in the garden, paddling pools and sprinklers are also great options!
Time for a Trans-fur-mation
When it’s getting toasty outside it may be time to lose those luscious locks. Getting your dog groomed regularly will help them to stay cool - using a professional groomer will help your pup keep their fur at a length that will still protect their skin from harmful UV rays. Brushing your dog will also help to thin out those thick undercoats!