Your duty as a pet owner is to enjoy the summer sun with your four-legged friend while protecting them from the hazards of heatstroke. While you could keep them inside of your air-conditioned home all summer, you should still go outside to exercise and play but take some precautions when doing so. Here are three ways to help keep your furry pal safe while playing outdoors in the heat.
#1: Fit your dog with a cooling vest
Unlike cooling pads, cooling vests can go with your pet while they’re exercising and playing. These products work by mitigating your pet’s body heat through evaporation. Simply wet the vest, place it on your pet, and allow the water to evaporate, taking excessive heat with it. Once the vest dries out, you can rewet it for further cooling. Some vests can also protect your pet from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, so choose a product that best fits your pet’s needs.
#2: Create frozen treats for your pet
Nothing is better than a popsicle or ice cream cone on a hot summer day, and you can make your pet their own frozen treat to enjoy. For example, stuff a rubber Kong with your pet’s favorite treat mixture, like yogurt and fresh berries, peanut butter and spray cheese, or tuna and crunchy snacks. Toss the Kong in the freezer for a few hours until it’s solid, and your pet will have a delicious treat to help them cool off.
#3: Invest in a wading pool for your pet
Your yard may not be ideal for a full-size swimming pool, but a wading pool can be perfect for your pet to splash around in and cool off. Help your furry friend beat the summer’s heat by filling a wading pool with a few inches of water and tossing in their favorite toys to entice them to play. Treats and chews can also be appealing water toys that encourage your pet to take a dip.
Observe your pet when they are outside for any signs of heatstroke. If you notice that your furry friend is becoming weak, staggering, or collapsing, contact us immediately.