1. Make sure they have access to shade. This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s important that your pet has a shady spot if they’re outside with you - whether that be an umbrella, a pop-up tent, or a large tree.
2. H20 – Make sure to be constantly be refilling your pet’s water bowls and wash them well after outdoor use and always carry a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl when you take your dog for a walk or go on an adventure.
3. Purchase a kiddie pool. This is a great, inexpensive way to help your pup cool off this summer – just make sure you have a designated dog towel before you let them back inside!
4. Set up a sprinkler. This is another great way to keep your dog cool and provide exercise if they decide running through or chasing water is their new favorite thing.
5. Brush your pet regularly. This helps remove excess winter undercoat that may contribute to trapping heat. Unlike shaving or grooming which removes the fur, brushing simply thins the coat and keeps the fur that protects a pet’s skin from sunburn.
6. Avoid hot sand and pavement. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t touch it with your bare hands for more than 10 seconds, your pup’s bare paws can’t either. Consider investing in a pair of booties to keep your pet’s paws safe and cool during walks, hikes, or beach days or…
7. Take your pet out for longer walks in the early morning or late evening and keep walks short in the middle of the day when the heat is at its peak. Just be mindful!
8. Provide a towel soaked in cool water to lay on or wrap a wet bandana around your pet’s neck to help them stay cool.
9. Soak a rope toy in water or (no sodium) broth and freeze it. Hey, humans like popsicles – why not give your pup a chicken broth-sicle?
10. Dog-sicles. Cut fresh fruit and vegetables into small pieces and throw them in the freezer for a healthy, simple cool-down treat for your dog. Ideas include watermelon, banana, apples, peppers or sweet potato!