Tips For Keeping Your Dog Cool In The Summer

Summer can mean lots of fun outside with your dog. As the temperatures rise, your dog will get hot and can overheat. Whether you're taking him for a ride, to the park, or out in the yard to play, here are some tips for keeping your dog cool this Summer.

Never leave your dog in the car - This is a given, right? And no, not even for a few minutes. Temperatures can soar inside of a car. On an 85 degree day, the temperature can reach 102 F within 10 minutes. Cracking windows and leaving water for your dog will not keep them from overheating in a parked car. Would you really want to risk your dog's life for just a "quick trip" in the store? Leave your dog at home or wait to go places where he can come with you.
Keep your house cool - Close the drapes and crank up the AC on super hot days. You can even use a cooling mat to help your dog cool down inside or out
Offer an ice pack or wet towel to lay on, or add ice cubes to the water dish.
Make your dog some homemade frozen treats to keep them cool! (Frozen Dog Treat Recipes or Dog Ice Cream)
Get a kiddie pool and fill it with cool water for your dog to wade or lay in, or better yet take your dog for a swim (watch out for water toxicity or harmful chemicals in some pools)
Let your dog dig - (Unless they dig to escape!) Dogs dig their dens to find food, hide, give birth, or keep cool.
Watch when you exercise - Not only do pavements get dangerously hot and can burn your dog's paw pads, but you should try to take your pet out for exercise during the cooler parts of the day. Don't forget to carry enough water for you both!
Keep an eye on humidity because when the air is full of moisture, your dog may not be able to pant enough to cool himself off. Especially if you have a snub-nosed pet like pug or bulldog. Their smaller airways make it harder for them to release heat when they pant. It's also easier for older and overweight dogs to have a heatstroke.
Don't leave your dog outside alone for extended periods of time - and when he/she is outside, don't forget to ensure there is plenty of shade and water
Groom your pet - If your dog has long hair, get rid of any mats and tangles. Dogs will struggle to keep cool when they are covered in hair and matts. Be sure though to talk to your groomer first because some dog breeds have coats that keep them cool and are dangerous to shave down.
Watch for signs of overheating - Heavy panting, heavy drooling, trouble breathing, rapid heartbeat, dark or red gums or tongue, dizziness, weakness, agitation.
Watch for signs of dehydration - Sunken eyes, lethargy, dry mouth, depression - not all signs of dehydration are easy to detect.

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