5 Tips to keep your dog cool during summer

It’s almost summer, and the heat can be a real bummer for your dogs. Rising temperatures can create a real sticky situation for our furry friends. However the key to saving your dog from summer heat, and possible heatstroke is being well prepared. We’ve combined a list of signs to spot signs of heat strokes along with a few solutions to prevent it from happening!

How do I know if it's too hot for my dog?

Honestly this is a wide spectrum because while there are dogs that love summer, some just can’t bear the heat. The way your dog reacts to heat will depend greatly on their breed, age, size, and health conditions. Run a simple search on your dog's breed to see the temperatures they’re usually comfortable in and if they’re overly sensitive, be sure that you put in that extra effort into keeping them cool.

While dogs don’t speak, their bodies tell us a lot about how they’re feeling! Watch out for these signs during summer:

• Lethargy

• Heavy panting

• Glazed eyes

• Dizziness

• Vomiting

• Purple or Deep red tongue

• Unconsciousness

• Excessive thirst

• Lack of breathing

In case you suspect your dog is suffering through a heat stroke, be quick to take action! Avoid panicking and do the following:

• Bring your dog to some shade

• Give them some cold water

• Wrap a damp cloth or let them lay on a wet towel/mat

• Contact your vet incase its severe

5 Tips to beat the heat

1. Always keep them hydrated!

Always keep water handy. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors make sure your furry friend has access to plenty of water during the summers. For outdoors you can look at buying collapsible dog bowls or portable pet bottles.

2. Plan your walks

Avoid taking your dog for walks during peak sun hours. That golden light may be amazing for photos but isn’t really the best for your golden retriever during summers! Instead wake up a lil early and take your dog for a morning stroll. In case you do venture out during peak sun hours; make sure that you:

• Carry water and give them small sips every 15-20 minutes.

• Provide them with protective gear like sunscreen pet friendly of course.

• Prevent them from direct exposure with things like shoes for their paws, and light and breathable clothing for their body.

3. Keep them cool

Dogs sweat from their paws, so a smart way to keep them cool would be by placing a cool damp towel, or cooling mat for your dog to sit on. Also don't be shy to play with food! Dogs love ice, and frozen pupsicles. Crush some berries and unsweetened peanut butter and throw it into your freezer for some yum pupsicles, you can also buy some DIY ice cream kits here.

4. Throw some shade

No we’re not asking you to be salty with your dog, please remember extra salt is bad for your pet. By shade, we mean it in the most literal sense! Keep your dog indoors during peak sunny hours, entertain them with some house games, and tricks. If you do want them roaming outdoors; just ensure you keep them cool in some way; .e with the help of those inflatable dog pools or walking them on wet grass with sprinklers.

5. Give them a trim

Yes your pup looks adorable with all that fur, but keeping a short coat might be more comfortable for your furry friend if you live in a super humid climate. If not trimmer, make sure you keep them well groomed because summers and matted dog coats really don’t go too well.

Overall honestly, just look after your dog and they’ll be fine!