They're here at last! Long, sunny days are great for outdoor adventures with your best friend.
However, the rising temperatures can be tough on dogs, making it crucial to ensure they stay cool and comfortable.
Here are some essential tips to help keep your dog cool and healthy during the warm summer months.
Hydration is key
Fresh water: Always give your dog access to fresh, cool water. Check and refill their water bowl regularly, especially if they spend time outside.
Portable water bowls: When you're on the go, bring a portable water bowl and a bottle of water to keep your dog hydrated during walks or trips to the park.
Hydrating treats: Offer hydrating treats like frozen dog-friendly fruit like watermelon or blueberries.
Avoid the midday heat
Change your walk schedule: Plan your walks during the cooler parts of the day, either early in the morning or late in the evening, to avoid the peak heat.
Shaded areas: Ensure your dog has access to shaded areas if they spend time outdoors. Set up a shaded spot in your garden or use a dog-friendly sunshade.
Cool down with water play
Paddling pools: Set up a shallow paddling pool in your garden for your dog to splash around and cool off.
Sprinklers: Let your dog play in a gentle sprinkler or hose them down with cool (but not cold) water.
Swimming: If your dog enjoys swimming, take them to a dog-friendly lake or pool. Always supervise them around water.
Create a cool environment indoors
Fans: Use fans to keep your home cool. Place a fan near your dog's favourite resting spot.
Cooling mats: Invest in a cooling mat or bed that absorbs heat and provides a cool surface for your dog to lie on.
Shut out the sun: Keep curtains or blinds closed during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun and keep indoor temperatures down.
Consider their diet
Light meals: Feed your dog smaller, lighter meals during the summer to help them stay cool and comfortable.
Frozen treats: Make homemade frozen treats using dog-friendly ingredients like yoghurt, peanut butter, and fruit. Freeze them in ice cube trays for a refreshing snack.
Grooming matters
Regular brushing: Regularly brush your dog to remove excess fur and prevent matting, which can trap heat. However, avoid shaving double-coated breeds, as their fur protects them from both heat and sunburn.
Trim fur: For dogs with long hair, consider a trim to keep their coat manageable and cool.
Watch for signs of overheating
Panting and drooling: Excessive panting and drooling can be early signs of overheating.
Lethargy and weakness: If your dog seems unusually tired or weak, it could be due to heat exhaustion.
Vomiting or diarrhoea: These can be signs of heatstroke and require immediate attention.
Take action: If you suspect your dog is overheating, move them to a cool area, provide water, and wet their fur with cool (not cold) water. Contact your vet immediately.
Avoid hot surfaces
Paw protection: Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws. Check the temperature of the ground with the back of your hand before walks. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
Grass and dirt paths: Walk your dog on grass or dirt paths instead of hot tarmac or concrete.
Stay cool and have fun!
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