Seven Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool this Summer

Summer is finally here Chicago! Bring on the pool days, cold treats, and time spent outdoors. As we are getting hit with the summer heat, it is important to remember that our dogs cannot swap out their fur coats for summer attire. Dogs can easily overheat and become in serious danger if they are left in the heat for too long. Make sure you know the signs and symptoms of an overheated dog and take further precautions to avoid injury. Here are seven ways to keep your dog cool this summer:

1. Ice, Ice Baby

A trick I like to use with my dog, Mia, is adding ice cubes to her water bowl in the summer. After she is done running around outside, an ice-cold drink can be very refreshing. Even the ice cubes can be a chilling snack.

2. Find Shade

While you may want to get some color from the sun, your pup should not. While on a walk or during play, keep an eye out for shaded areas that your dog can rest in. Don’t forget to watch out for hot sidewalks, gravel, and other surfaces. If the ground is too hot for your feet, it will be too hot for them as well.

3. Pupsicles

Yes, you read that correctly...dog ice cream! There is a sweet option for the sweet tooth fan and also a savory recipe. Take a look at the dog approved pupsicles on myrecipes. Side note: The sweet recipe contains peanut butter. Please check your peanut butter ingredients before feeding your pets. If you see Xylitol - do not give this to your dog. Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in some peanut butters that can be very harmful for your pet.

4. Pool Time

You're not the only one that loves jumping in a pool in the summer heat. Give Fido a refreshing bath with the hose or let them lounge in their own puppy pool. You can also use a plastic kiddie pool as well. I tried with my dog, but she prefers to stay on dry land.

5. H20 on the Go

Dogs should always have access to water. If you and your dog travel often, invest in a travel dish that keeps your dog hydrated while on-the-go. I found one at Petco here.

6. Cooling Gear

A friend of mine recently purchased a cooling collar for his dog to wear outside this summer. This may help your dog in the most hot, humid conditions. I also stumbled upon a cooling pad for your household as well. If you are a fan of similar items, let us know.

7. Time for a Trim

If you have a long-haired dog, he/she could really use a haircut. Trimming the hair allows for more air circulation, keeping your dog nice and cool. Here is the best groomer I found in the Chicagoland area, Shorty Styles!

There are many ways to stay comfortable in the blazing heat. Be sure to let us know your favorite ways to keep your pet cool this summer!

Tweet us @SparkySteps or send us a photo of your pet staying cool!

 

Written by Kathryn Minniti

 

Sources:

https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/common-emergencies/e_dg_heat_stroke

http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/peanut-butter-pupsicles

https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/dog/dog-travel-and-outdoor-essentials/dog-water-bottles-travel-bowls/good2go-pink-snack-duo

http://www.thegreenpetshop.com/product/cool-pet-pad.html

https://www.amazon.com/Cooling-Dogs-Bandana-Adjustable-Right/dp/B07451JXXX#customerReviews

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Yaheetech-Foldable-PVC-Pet-Swimming-Pool-Bathing-Tub/649768129?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227140086827&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=250525864002&wl4=pla-413300950076&wl5=9021544&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=649768129&wl13=&veh=sem