With summer only a few weeks away, there’s a lot to look forward to—pool parties, outdoor barbeques, picnics and so much more. However, with the mercury rising around the globe, it’s a safe guess that Australia is in for another piping-hot summer!
You may know just how you’re going to keep yourself cool but have you given some thought about how you’re going to keep your fur kids comfortable? That could involve everything from arranging adequate pet transportation for trips to setting up a doggie pool at home.
Hot Tips to Keep Your Doggies Cool
During the summer months, your dogs probably like to spend as much time outdoors as you do. For pets that are allowed indoors, going inside where the aircon is on can provide some relief from those super-hot days.
However, for pets who permanently live outside, the heat may become too much to handle. That said, we’ve compiled a few easy tips to help you keep your dog cool in the heat.
1. Plenty of Fresh Drinking Water
Every pet owner knows that the golden rule of owning any type of animal is providing fresh drinking water at all times. This is especially important in the warmer months. Whether your dog lives indoors or spends their days out in the heat, having cold water available at all times is an absolute must.
Here are a few additional tips to consider here:
- Half fill a 2L container with water and freeze. Once frozen, fill the rest of the container with water and place in the garden in the morning. This will ensure they have cool water throughout the day.
- You can add a few ice blocks to their water bowl every time you freshen up your own drink.
- If you’re taking your dog to the park, take a few bottles of frozen water that can defrost while your pup is playing. You’ll have lovely cool water when they’re ready for a drink.
2. Provide Water to Play In
Active dogs will benefit from having a way to reduce their body temperature quickly. An easy way to do this is to set up a kiddie pool in a shady area of the yard and add enough water to cover your dog’s paws.
Teach puppies to play in the pool when it’s hot. They’ll soon learn that it’s not only fun but cools them down too. Be sure to put fresh water in the pool every day to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Create a Shady Spot to Lie Down
Dogs will always look for the coolest place to lie when they’re outside. If you don’t have large trees providing shelter, you may need to create a shady spot big enough for them to lie down in. Position their food and water bowls there too.
Fortunately, you can do this on a budget. Here are a few ideas.
- Shaded pet beds: These resemble camping cots and it’s essentially a canvas sheet on four steel legs. An umbrella clips on to create the shade.
- Patio umbrellas: Got an old patio umbrella lying in the garage? Stick it in a giant flowerpot in a way that creates enough shade for your pooch and their water bowl.
- Cooling beds: These are plastic sheets filled with cooling gel that you can lie flat on the ground. Pet experts recommend these for older dogs and animals with arthritis or hip dysplasia.
If you’re a DIYer, you can create a homemade shade spot. All you need is something that elevates your dog off the hot ground and provides shade. A few poles and a few sheets of canvas should do the trick!
4. Reduce Exercising on Hot Days
It’s essential to exercise your dog regularly. In fact, experts view daily exercise to be the healthiest. However, keep in mind that the heat on the street, sidewalk or paved areas can be harmful to your dog’s feet.
Always check the temperature report in advance and schedule your walks or play times around the cooler parts of the day. Opt to play in shady areas and avoid long walks on hot paving.
If you’re taking your dogs with you on a weekend hike, you may want to invest in a few cooling collars or collar vests that will keep your pets cool on long walks.
5. Schedule Transport in Advance
If you need to transport your dog for a holiday or home relocation during the hot summer months, rather opt for interstate pet transport to get it done safely. Doing it on your own? Keep a window open during the trip and remember to provide a few cool treats.
When you’re parking somewhere, leave the window slightly open or leave the AC on. Always park in a shaded area to avoid your dog developing heatstroke symptoms such as:
- Salivating
- Discomfort
- Panting
- Disorientation
Final Thoughts
If you have a pet as part of the family you should do everything possible to keep them cool during the hotter months of summer. With a few of the tips we’ve provided, keeping them comfortable doesn’t have to be difficult!
