Keep Your Dogs Cool This Summer

Have a small pool so your dog can keep cool this summer.

Summertime means lots of time spent in the sun, whether it is visits to the beach, swimming in the pool or even free concerts in the park. Whatever the reason may be for going outside this summer, be sure to keep yourself and your family cool. And don’t forget about your four-legged friend. Just like humans, dogs and puppies are susceptible to heatstroke, and some breeds are at a higher risk than others, including bulldogs, pugs and boxers. So, if you plan on leaving your apartment this summer with Fido, here are a few tips to keep your puppy cool this summer.

Water – lots of it. Whether you’re taking a long hike or just a quick stroll around your community, bring along a water bowl. There are several options, including a collapsible fabric water bowl ($8) and a water dispenser ($13). If you’re just playing with Fido outdoors, keep the water bowl in a shaded area, if possible, and be sure to frequently change out the water with fresh water.

Fresh drinking water will help, as well as pools or tubs with a shallow layer of water. Purchase a small plastic kiddie pool and fill it with water so your dog can jump in and out and splash around in the water to keep cool. Just like the drinking water, keep the tub or pool in a shaded spot, and change the water frequently.

Provide a shade. Just like humans, dogs can get sunburned, too. Sunscreen is available for dogs, but it is not ideal. An insulated dog house may not be ideal in an apartment community, but consider an open-air tent or canopy. This will provide shelter from the sun, and if possible, add a fan, which will help further cool your dog down.

Trim their coats. For dog breeds with longer hair, get them a shorter haircut to last through the summer.

Try a cooling dog bed. After running around, Fido may get tired and will need a place to lay down. A dog bed is comfortable, but it may also be too hot in the sun. Try a cooling dog bed ($45-60), which is soft and comfortable, as well as cool.

Avoid leaving Fido in the car. Even if it doesn’t seem too hot outside, the temperature inside the car can rise to dangerous levels. Avoid leaving your dog in the car, even if you’re doing a quick run into the store. If you must leave the dog in the car, have another person sit in the car with it running and the air conditioning on.

Watch out for potential hazards at public events. Although some events are great for dogs to go out and socialize with other four-legged friends, some large outdoor festivals can be overwhelming and can increase the chance of injury, dehydration and exhaustion. If you do take your dog to an event, be cautious of the food scraps and trash on the ground, and remember to bring lots of water.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/USGirl