When the temperature rises, there’s plenty of things you can do to keep yourself cool: Go for a swim, eat a popsicle, drink a tall glass of lemonade, sit in the shade. We also have the nice evolutionary ability to sweat in multiple places, which, while unpleasant, helps regulate our body temperature.
Our dogs aren’t so lucky.
Not that they wouldn’t enjoy a (pooch friendly) popsicle or swimming – those are probably always things your dog would like to do. But when it comes to keeping cool in the summer, your dog has only two ways to regulate their body temperature – their tongues and their paw pads.
So, what are some things you can do for your dog to help keep them cool in the dog days of summer? We’ve got some tips for you.
Be mindful of the times you go out for walks
If you can, avoid the hottest part of the day to do your walks. Not only will you help keep your dog comfortable on their walk, you’ll prevent heat stroke. It also ensures they aren’t burning their paw pads on the hot concrete.
Keep your long walks, jogs, hikes, and other activities to early morning and late evenings when the sun is cooler. If you absolutely have to do a walk, try to keep it quick and in the shade or on the grass. And always double check the temperate of the sidewalk – you can do this with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your doggo’s paw pads.
Provide a cool spot to lie down
Most dogs are naturals when it comes to seeking shade or cool spots to lie down. You’re likely to find Fido on the cool kitchen tile or bathroom floor rather than their beds in the hot afternoon. Stuck inside with no AC? Provide lots of shade, a cool spot for them to lie down in, and consider turning on a fan. If you want to provide a little more for them, consider a cooling pet pad, which can be used indoors and out.
Make sure you’ve providing lots of fresh drinking water
Inside and out, leave plenty of fresh water in several bowls or buckets for your dog. You also want to keep checking and refilling them daily – your dog is going to go through a lot of water when they’re hot! Make sure you’re placing them in easy to reach spots. If you want to add a bit of fun (for you and your dog) consider buying a paw activated hose.
Never leave your dog in the car
We feel like this is an obvious one, but you’d be surprised at how many people still leave their dogs in hot cars each year. Even if you think you’ll only be a few minutes, it’s just never a good idea. Temperatures can soar inside and your dog can only cool down by panting. It’s not fair to them. Leave them at home if you have errands you need to run.
Plenty of summer fun can be had for you and your best friend. Just keep their health and safety in mind and know the signs for sun or heat stroke – both are easily avoidable if you provide plenty of care for your dog!
