Five Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool in The Summer
When the dog days of summer set in what you do with your furry family members can be critical to their health. Warm weather can be particularly bothersome to dogs because their furry coats hold in the heat. Plus, dog don’t have sweat glands distributed throughout their bodies so they are more likely to be affected by heat related problems. They have to rely on panting and sweating through their foot pads to deal with the heat. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to keep your dog comfortable in the heat.
Avoid Hot CarsNever leave your dog in your car in hot weather. Even if you crack the window temperatures can climb to more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes your car like an oven. If you leave your dog in the car you are risking heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Keep Hydrated
When you take your dog for a walk in the heat bring water with you. They make portable water dishes that you can use to feed your dog water during a walk. Offer your dog water when you notice he is panting. At home keep your dog’s water bowl filled with fresh water. Add ice cubes to his water on hot days.
Stay Cool
Air conditioning is the best way to keep your dog cool in the summer months, but if you don’t have it you need to make sure your dog stays cool. Place a fan where your dog likes to sleep. If you have a window fan set it to exhaust because this will help circulate the air and keep the space cool. You should also let your dog have access to cooler rooms in your home like your basement or garage.
Water Play
Let your dog play with water outside. You can spray him with the hose. You can also let him play in a sprinkler. You can even buy your dog his own swimming pool. Dogs love playing with water.
Sunscreen
Dogs can get sunburn too. Your dog may need sunscreen on his nose and the tips of his ears. Dogs with light-colored noses or light-colored fur are more vulnerable to sunburn. Also, if you clip your dog’s fur leave at least an inch of hair to protect him from the sun.
