As we move into the dog days of summer, it’s natural to be concerned about keeping your dog cool during long hot days.
Here are several ways to keep your pet cool and comfortable as the weather heats up.
Our dogs need special attention in the summer heat as we humans have the option of jumping in the pool or heading to an air-conditioned mall.
Not so for our animals.
If you are concerned about keeping your dog cool this summer, the most important thing to remember is to keep him well hydrated.
He must hydrate every hour at a minimum.
When you walk your dog, choose a time during the day when the temperature is at it’s lowest, either early morning or late in the afternoon or evening.
Or, try to avoid walking outside during the hottest days of the summer.
Whether you are at home, or out for a walk, it is also helpful to stick to walking in shaded areas.
Keep special water bowls around the home
At home, you may purchase a stationary water bowl that self-refills. This can be very helpful if you are out of the home during the day for work, for example.
Here are some options to keep your pooch well hydrated if you are not available to refill your dog’s bowl during the day.
A good example is the Petmate Replendish Mason Gravity Waterer Cat and Dog Water Dispenser, which contains a base and a plastic bottle. It dispenses fresh and filtered water continually while your pet is drinking.
Another is the Petmate Deluxe Fresh Flow water dispenser which releases water automatically when needed. It uses a carbon filter so that the standing water stays clean. It’s powered by plugging directly into an AC outlet. It includes a large 108 oz. reservoir.
Take water bottles when you’re out for a walk.
When you plan to walk your dog outside, there are several types of water bottles you can have on hand to take with you for hydration.
The Iesotc Pet Water Bottle for Dogs is a unique, lightweight dog water dispenser that you can carry with you when you are walking your pet. The lid of the bottle does double duty as it folds upward to mold into the shape of a tiny water bowl. By squeezing the plastic bottle the water pools into the folded top, creating a bowl shape from which your dog can drink. It has a lock so that the water does not leak. It has the capacity for 18 oz. of water and BPA free.
It’s made so resistant that you can step on the closed bottle without causing any leaks or damage.
The M&MKPET Dog Water Bowl for Walking is another light, fast and handy water vessel made from hard plastic. It uses a one-handed lock with two buttons: one to stop the water flow and the other to release water into a tiny water bowl at the tip. The bottle is BPA free, FDA approved, and lead-free.
Other Cooling Accessories to Keep Your Dog Comfortable
There are several cooling mats, pads, and beds that can help your dog stay comfortable to tolerate the heat of the summer.
The K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III Cooling Dog Bed. It has material inside that removes dog heat and releases it into the air. It requires no external power and is well suited for both indoor and outdoor use.
Other options are dog pools such as the Flameer Foldable PVC Pet Play Paddling Pool. It’s mobile and handy for travel so that after playing, dogs can jump in and cool down anywhere.
You may also include the traditional tried and true ways to keep dogs cool, such as keeping him indoors during the hottest time of the day, and putting on a fan when needed. Fresh cool water, a bath or swim are also enjoyable methods for your pets to remain comfortable.
Lastly, watch also for signs of dehydration or diet sensitivities. We want the very best for your pet and hope these tips help to keep your dog healthy, happy and cool this summer!
Do you have other ideas for keeping our pets cool this summer? Please let us know your suggestions!
