Caring for your dog in the summer heat

In hot weather, it’s best to take long runs and engage in other vigorous activities during the coolest parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. However, it’s not always possible to schedule
activities at specific times. In such cases, here are a few cooling tips to keep in mind:

1. When participating in agility or fast-paced activities, divide the performances into short bursts.
2. Between performances, offer your dog fresh water and the opportunity to rest in the shade.
3. Instead of running on scorching asphalt during midday, opt for a grass field or dirt road.
4. Ideally, choose a jogging path that offers shade and is located near a body of water.
5. Keep a close eye on your dog's movements and body language throughout the outdoor activity or sports performance.

If you enjoy jogging, hiking, or participating in sports with your dog, a cooling vest can be a handy accessory. The vest, when soaked in water, evaporates moisture and effectively cools your dog. It fits snugly around the chest, cooling the vital areas such as the large blood vessels of the chest and lungs. This cooling effect then circulates throughout the dog's body.

The vest is designed to provide a snug and comfortable fit, even for long-haired breeds like Shetland Sheepdogs and Australian Shepherds. The vest won’t restrict your dog’s natural range of motion, and it prevents large muscle groups from cooling down too quickly. As a result, your dog will stay cool even between sports performances and be ready for more action after a short break.

The cooling vest is also perfect for daily outdoor activities and travel. While using the vest, keep and eye on your dog's condition, and if the vest dries, simply wet it again. If the vest gets wet with seawater, be sure to rinse it carefully to remove any salt residue that could damage the fabric.

Wading and swimming are excellent ways for dogs to cool off in the summer. Cooling their paws can have a significant impact on the dog's overall temperature since dogs dissipate heat through their paws. However, not all dogs are natural water enthusiasts or good swimmers. In such cases, a life jacket provides safety for both the dog and the owner.

Even dogs that can swim, like Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers, can benefit from wearing a life jacket because swimming in the water and on the beach in hot weather can be tiring. The buoyancy provided by the life jacket saves energy and makes swimming more enjoyable and less stressful as the dog requires less effort to stay afloat.

If there is no beach suitable for swimming nearby, a small wading pool in your own yard can be a joy for your dog. Even small breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier or Miniature Schnauzer will happily frolic in a small pool. Water-loving breeds such as the Spanish Water Dog or Poodle, may also enjoy being cooled down with a hose.

Just like we enjoy ice cream in the summer heat, dogs have their own cooling treats, and you can easily make them at home. Freeze dog food morsels inside ice cubes or serve them any of their favourite treats cold and you will surely bring a smile to their face.

It's also essential to ensure that your dog always has access to fresh and clean water. Place their water bowl in a shaded area and remember to change the water regularly. To enhance the cooling effect, you can add a few ice cubes to the water bowl. And remember to monitor your dog's drinking habits to ensure that they stay hydrated throughout the day.

Whenever your dog is outdoors, make sure there is always a shaded area where they can seek refuge from the sun. You can create suitable cooling spots for dogs that spend a lot of time outside. Large stones or tiles placed in the shade stay cool for a long time and offer a comfortable place to cool down. Some dogs enjoy digging holes, and the ground or sand at the bottom provides natural coolness.

In the summer months, even temperatures indoors can rise to uncomfortable levels. Ensure that your dog finds a cool spot at home, such as any tiled floor where they can lie down and relax.

Travelling with dogs in the summer requires careful planning. The most crucial rule is never to leave your dog alone in a car. Even if the car is parked in the shade with the windows open, the temperature inside can quickly become dangerously hot.

When travelling with a dog on the road, it’s important to ensure that there is proper air circulation around them. If your dog travels in a transport carrier, avoid tightly packing other luggage around the box. Consider using a cooling vest, a cooling sleeping mat, or placing a fan placed near the dog to help keep them comfortable. Make sure to plan for sufficient stops and provide regular drinking breaks during your journey.

Remembering these tips will help you to keep your dog cool and safe during the hot summer months. Enjoy your adventures together while keeping your furry friend comfortable and protected from overheating.

Have a great summer with lots of fun moments!