With warmer weather rapidly approaching, your dog will likely be spending more time enjoying the great outdoors. Rising temperatures can not only be uncomfortable for your dog but potentially dangerous. Unlike humans who can sweat to lower their body temperature, dogs lack this capacity. They depend on panting to release their excess body heat. Heat can be a particular problem for large dogs and dogs with heavy coats. No matter what size dog you have or what type of coat he wears, all dogs need a little extra TLC when the mercury rises. Here's how to keep your dog cool as the temperatures rise:
Have Your Dog Professionally Groomed
This is particularly important if your dog has a long heavy coat or is a breed with a double coat. You can make his summer days much more pleasant by having his coat cut to a shorter length. Be careful not to cut your dog's fur so short that his skin is exposed since this can increase his risk for skin cancer as well as a potentially painful sunburn.
Get Your Dog a Cooling Bed and Cooling Accessories
A cooling bed looks like a typical dog bed but has channels that you fill with cold water to keep your dog cool. Generally, these beds are made of vinyl which makes them quite durable. You can also buy cooling vests and bandannas for dog. These items contain polymer crystals that absorb and retain water. Simply soak the items in cold water and place them on your dog before he goes outside. Similar vests are used for military dogs, allowing them to stay cool for several hours in hot, humid conditions.
Play Water Games With Your Dog
On hot, humid days, the temperature may be too high for you to take your regular walk together. Instead, why not grab the garden hose and play some water games with your dog? You can also get your dog a children's wading pool to enjoy on hot, sticky days. Be sure to get a durable plastic one particularly if you have a large dog who loves to chew.
Exercise Your Dog Early in the Morning or After Dark
If you take your dog on a daily walk, reschedule it so you can do it when the temperatures are the lowest. Substitute a trip to a local lake, a dog park with a pool, or other site with a body of water instead of your usual walk on hot days. This can be a relaxing change for both of you. Be sure to keep air circulating in the car on the way to your destination and never leave your dog in a hot car for any period of time.
Turn on the Fans
If your home lacks air conditioning or tends to heat up, leave several fans blowing in the area your dog stays while you're at work. Add some ice cubes to his water and give him a Frosty Paws dog ice cream when you return home. As a special treat, you can also make ice cubes out of beef bouillon to add flavor to your dog's water.
Remember these tips and keep your dog cool and safe during the sweltering summer months ahead.
