Vacations, beaches, water parks, picnics, BBQs, outdoor sports, and more … there’s a lot to love about summer! With that said, while you and your furry family member enjoy some time in the sun, be mindful of the scorching temperatures. Dogs are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, making it crucial for us as pet parents to take proactive measures to keep them cool, safe, and happy throughout the summer months. Read on for a list of six essentials to keep your dog cool this summer!
1. Drink, Drink, Drink: Water Bowls For Everyone
No matter what season it is, your dog should always have access to fresh water. But I’m starting with this one because, during the hot summer months, it’s even easier for your pooch to get dehydrated. Keep water bowls both indoors and outdoors, making sure they’re always accessible and filled. Plus, don’t forget to change the water daily and wash the bowls regularly. When heading out for walks or adventures, carry a portable water bottle and/or collapsible bowl to ensure your furry family member remains hydrated. THIS is my favorite portable water bottle!
2. Create A Cool Spot With This Cooling Gel Pad
Cooling gel mats are an innovative product that helps offer relief to your pup on a hot day. Get this: They don’t require any refrigeration or electricity. This cooling pad, for example, features pressure-activated cooling! All you have to do is set it out in a shady area and let your pup relax on the cool, comfortable surface. There are a bunch of cooling gel pads on the market. I personally have this one by Hugs Pet Products – it’s a top-rated cooling mat and comes in 3 sizes: Medium, Large, and Extra Large. For size reference, I have the Medium and it works well for my Toy Poodle and Chihuahua. So, definitely size up!
3. Cooling Bandana
This All for Paws Chill Out Ice Bandana is another great cooling product. The company recommends following these instructions: Soak it in water to activate the material’s special cooling technology, ring it out, and then place it on your dog’s neck. I read a lot of reviews before buying this bandana a few years ago and picked up some good pointers. So, here’s how I use it: Soak the bandana in cold water, ring it out, place it in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes, and then strap it onto your pup before heading outside.
4. Splash Pad
A doggy splash pad is the perfect way to provide your pup with some cooling playtime. It’s easy to set up- just hook it up to a garden hose and then watch the water flow through its sprinklers and fill the center (like a shallow pool). I just purchased this splash pad from Amazon and have let my dogs play with it several times. They were quite confused at first … and hesitant to run through the sprinklers. But, after a few games of fetch (where I strategically threw the ball into the pad’s center) they started enjoying it! Check out their reaction in this video:
@prouddogmomblog Bought the dogs a splash pad to beat the summer heat! Took a little time, but it’s a 10/10 from us 🐶 #amazonfinds #amazonfindsfordogs #dogsplashpad ♬ original sound – Melissa
This splash pad comes in two sizes. Plus, it’s free from BPA and phthalates.
5. Strap On The Life Vest
Okay, so this one won’t technically keep your pooch cool. But, if you’re planning to let your four-legged fur ball take a dip in the human pool or lake, you may want to consider getting a life vest. THIS one is available in five sizes ranging from XS-XL and nearly than 40K people have already shared positive reviews on Amazon. It’s even earned an “Amazon’s Choice” badge!
6. Nom, Nom, Nom: Serve Up Some Refreshing Frozen Treats
I scream, you scream, and even the dog screams for a little ice cream! Sure, traditional ice cream is made with ingredients our pups are better off avoiding. But, get this: You can easily make your own dog-approved version. I recently shared a recipe for homemade watermelon ice cream. Check it out HERE. With just two simple ingredients and a food processor, you can create a mouthwatering concoction that will have tails wagging in excitement.
@prouddogmomblog Looking for a refreshing treat to help your pup beat the heat? Try this 2-ingredient watermelon ice cream recipe! (Best served immediately) #watermelonicecream #dogtreat #frozendogtreats ♬ original sound – Melissa
Along with DIY dog-approved ice cream, you can also make your pup frozen smoothie treats, frozen lick mats, or frozen enrichment bowls.
Some Other Tips To Keep Your Pup Cool This Summer
- Never leave your dog alone in a hot car.
- Don’t go for long walks during peak sun time (AKA the middle of the afternoon). Instead, shoot for early morning or later in the evening.
- No matter what time of day it is, before you take off for a walk, always feel the ground with your hand. If it feels too hot for you after about 10 seconds, then it’s too hot for your pup’s paws!
- When hanging out in the backyard, make sure there is a shady area where your dog can rest.
- Dogs can get a sunburn! So, before spending lots of time outside in the sun, it’s a good idea to apply dog-approved sunscreen. Warning: Not your personal sunscreen designed for humans. There are special dog sunscreens formulated for them!
