Summer is in full swing, which means temperatures are rising and getting hotter still! While we humans are lucky enough to be able to wear less layers and enjoy trips to the beach or lake, our pups need to find other ways to stay cool – and it’s up to us to help!
Since our canines can’t tell us when they’re feeling overheated, check out these 5 ways to help our canines stay cool this season.
1. Take care of their coats
Grooming is an essential part of your dog’s health, and in the summer, it can help keep him cool. Brushing out extra fluff is a huge favor to them, and dogs with hair that need regular cuts – like Poodles – may benefit from having shorter ‘dos in the hotter months.
With that said, dogs with fur should not be shaved down, including breeds with long, thick coats (as well as shorter ones). Believe it or not, their fur is actually designed to keep heat out, and also protects them from sunburns. If you’re unsure whether or not to give your pup a summer haircut, consult with your vet.
2. Let them splash
Don’t have a pool? No problem! (And, lucky you if you do!) If your pup loves water, consider putting a kiddie pool in the backyard – in a shady place is ideal. You can also let Fido run through the sprinkler, if he likes. If you don’t have a yard, consider letting your canine wade in your bathtub!
3. Offer a breeze
If you have central air, your pooch should stay nice and cool inside your home. If not, Fido may appreciate a nice fan near a comfortable lounging spot so he can bask in the cool breeze.
4. Keep them hydrated!
Make sure your dog’s water bowl stays cool and fresh so she keeps lapping up that water! You can safely add cubes to the dish, despite a rumor that circulated a few years ago (it has been debunked). What pup parents should know, though, is that dogs suffering from heat stroke should be cooled down with tepid water (not freezing cold) to prevent shock. To learn more about heat stroke in dogs, click here.
If your dog loves drinking from a fountain, faucet or the spigot outside, let her – as long as she keeps sipping that H2O!
5. Try a Cooling Collar
Dog cooling collars have become very popular in recent years, and are a great way to help your dog chill with a little help from the freezer. Just pop the collar in for 20 minutes and the special cooling gel retains the coolness.
Try the new iHeartDogs Cooling Collars – Your Purchase Will Fund 5 Meals for Shelter Dogs!
