Keeping Your Dog Safe and Cool Through Summer
South Carolina summers are HOT. With the heat indexes we get, temperatures can easily rise into the 100’s during our summer. It’s prudent to remind you that dogs can easily overheat in cars or outside on hot summer days, so please be vigilant when you have them out with you.
Whether your dog stays home most of the time, travels with you on trips, or hangs out with you at the pool, lake or beach, you want to make sure they stay cool and hydrated.
Here are some products and ideas that can help keep your dog comfortable during the “dog days of summer”.
Products to keep your dog cool and comfortable this summer
- Kiddie Pools – Yes, the cheap plastic kind you can get just about anywhere right now 😉 For dogs who like water, it’s a great way for them to cool off in your yard on a hot summer day. Put it in the shade if possible to keep the water cooler, longer. Be sure to empty it out regularly so it doesn’t breed mosquitoes!
- Dog water bottles or travel bowls – Make sure they stay hydrated while they are out with you – no matter the activity! There are plenty of dog water bottles and travel water bowls to choose from. Here are links to a Google search for quick reference:
- Pupsicles – Freeze some treats in water (or chicken/beef broth). Let them play with/eat them on a hot day. If you don’t want to use treats, a lot of dogs love plain ice cubes 🙂 Or, just freeze the chicken or beef broth without treats in them, too!
- Puppy Ice Cream – Yes, this is a real product. You can find pre-made ice cream online (just Google “dog ice cream”), or you can make your own.
- Cooling collars – Some require refrigeration, some only need to be dipped in water and the evaporation is what helps keep your dog cool. Most major pet stores and Amazon have them listed, but a quick Google search will get you a list.
- Cooling vests – I personally love these because they cover more surface area than the collars to cool your dog off. They use the process of evaporation to cool your dog off: dip the vest in water, then wring it out. The evaporation of the water from the vest helps cool your dog off (much like sweat does for us). New products come out every year, but here is a link to a Google search: Cooling vests
- Cooling mats – My dog loves to lay on his cooling mat during the summer (he’s dark brown and thick fur) – especially after an early morning walk/run! The newer ones are low-maintenance and don’t require refrigeration. They have a breathable fabric and gel insert – when your dog lays on the mat, the gel creates a cooling effect. Again, new products come out every year, but here is a link to a Google search: Cooling mats
- SOLARDOGZ Rashguard shirt – This is great for light-skinned dogs or hairless dogs that love to be in the sun. They have a SPF rating of 50+ and block 97.5% of UVA/UVB rays (according to their website). Sizes range from XS to XL. You can check them out here.
- Doggie Sunscreen – Yes, dogs can get sunburned! Human sunscreen has ingredients that can be harmful to dogs, but there are sunscreens available now that are pet-friendly. Here are a few options:
- Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for Pets – this is the only one on the list that is FDA complaint. You can also find it on Amazon (SPF 30-40).
- My Dog Nose It! Sun Protection Balm – Protect exposed areas (ears, nose, etc.), all-natural, water resistant but recommended to reapply every 2 hours. 2 sizes available.
- Lucky Pup Sunscreen Dog Balm – You can protect their snout, paws, and elbows. This is meant as a moisturizer, but it does offer some sun protection. All-natural, waterproof
- Life jackets – Swimming is wonderful exercise and a great way for your dog to cool off. If you’re taking your dog out on the boat this summer, its a good idea to have a life jacket for them. Safety first! Most local pet stores have them in stock this time of year, but you can also find them online (yes, I love a Google search!).
Please note: I am not affiliated with any of the companies or links listed above. They are provided only as a reference, and to give you a starting point for any research you feel is needed. Please feel free to do price comparisons and choose the best option for your dog and budget.
Related: Exercise Ideas for Dogs at Any Age
I hope you and your dog have a safe and enjoyable summer! If your favorite product isn’t on the list – drop a comment below! Stay cool, everyone!
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