Summer is the time of the year that brings so many exciting and fun opportunities for dogs and their parents. You can surf at the beach, dine out with your dog, visit the town- the possibilities are endless but all the fun does come with a risk, and that is your pup’s well-being. The increasing temperatures may put your dog at the risk of developing heatstroke, so it is essential to take a few extra steps to protect our dogs and make sure they stay happy and healthy. Here are seven tips to help dog-parents keep their dog cool this summer. 
Don’t Leave Your Dog in Closed Environments
At times pet-parents think of letting their pooch tag along on their trip to the supermarket or while running errands. You may feel that it isn’t that hot and you won’t take long but little do we know that we can be risking our dog’s life. The temperature inside a closed car can quickly soar up causing your dog to overheat, even if the windows are open. The safest thing to do is leaving your dog at home so you wouldn’t have to worry.
Provide Access to Fresh Water
Water is essential for a healthy body, and it is particularly important for keeping our dogs safe from the heat. Be sure to provide your dog access to fresh and cold water, even when you go out with your furry companion be sure to carry a bottle and a portable bowl along. Otherwise, If the dog is not drinking water it may cause dehydration which can lead to dangerously low blood pressure, electrolyte disorders, or kidney failure.
Provide Shade to Your Furry Companions
Whether your dog lives indoors or outdoors, offer him a shady spot for resting away from the sun. You can use a shade screen or string up a tarp, don’t consider a doghouse as they can trap heat. Instead, create the resting spot on the grass in an area shaded with trees.
Avoid Walking on Pavements
Our pup’s paws are sensitive, and the asphalt can be too hot for them to walk on resulting in burns which can be quite painful. You can use pet booties to insulate your dog’s paws before taking him out for a walk but try your best to avoid asphalt pavements. Instead, choose other areas to walk your dog such as dog-friendly parks.
Avoid Exercise When It Is Too Hot Outside
Walking or exercising your pooch when the temperatures go up can be dangerous. Choose a cooler time of the day such as early in the morning or evening, make sure you meet your dog’s exercise requirements but don’t take him outside only to relieve boredom. Get puzzles, exciting toys and play indoor games to keep your pup mentally stimulated.
Make Some Cool Treats
We have all heard that the way to a human’s heart is through their stomach, well that pretty much applies to our furry companions as well. You can create some healthy treats to help your dog cool up from the inside.
Take Special Care of Particular High-Risk Dog Breeds
Some dog breeds such as the snub-nosed ones like the bull-dog and pug are predisposed to heat exhaustion as they have smaller airways making it difficult for them to release heat via panting.
5 Products to Look Out For
Since we have discussed the tips and tricks to keep your dogs chilling this summer, let’s now have a look at some products that can be helpful for your pup in the hot weather
Cooling Mat
Our dogs love resting on the floors to keep themselves cool, but they do deserve special treatment, why not get them a cooling mat. It will help lower your dog’s body temperature and provide refreshing comfort.
Walking outdoors during the hottest hours of the day to relieve themselves may not be enjoyable for your dog, and it can also put some strain on older pets. However, with synthetic grass for indoor dogs, they can stay inside and also use this grass as a spot to go potty–
Topical Products
Since the pesky pests are on the rise in summer, protect your pooch by purchasing products to protect against ticks and fleas, after all, you don’t want to out your dog at the risk of an infestation.
Travel Bowls
You need to keep your dog hydrated, especially when you are out. Purchase a few travel bowls that are easy to pack and set-up to make sure your dog gets access to cool water wherever he needs.
Paw Balms
Our dog’s paws need special care if exposed to any hot or harmful surfaces; paw balms are the perfect protection to soothe the paw pads and provide comfort.
Doggy Sunscreen
Our pups have sensitive skin that can get burned sunburns; a pet-safe sunscreen is the best way to protect them from the harmful UV rays from the sun.
About The Guest Blogger
Jenny Perkins is an Animal Behavior Specialist and a passionate writer. She loves to write about the nutrition, health, and care of dogs. She aims at providing tips to dog owners that can help them become better pet parents. She writes for the blog Here Pup.
