Keep Your Dog Cool

Summer is right around the corner and it's getting hot. Dogs don't sweat like humans do. The only way they lose heat is through the little pads of their feet or by panting. Therefore, it's really important to take extra measures to keep your pooch cool in the heat.
1. Exercise your dog in the early morning or evening when the temperatures are a bit cooler.

2. Give Fido a summer haircut!

3. Invest in a kiddie pool for your back yard.

4. Be mindful that pavement can get REALLY hot! Try not to have your dog walk or lay on pavement in the heat. Dog booties can help provide a barrier from heat on your dog's paws. This will help them remain cool and prevent heat blisters from hot pavement.

5. Ice pops! Not for you, but for the dog. Make sure they are specifically made for dogs. Human ice pops have too much sugar or may have ingredients that are poisonous for you dog. You can buy dog ice cream/ pops at certain retailers in your area or you can make them at home. We have a ton of recipes pinned onto Pinterest that you can check out here.

6. If it's just too hot out and you are stuck inside, play a game with your dog to occupy their mind and keep them out of trouble. Here is a list of mental stimulation games for your dog---> click here.

7. And finally, always watch for signs of dehydration and heat stroke:

• Drooling excessively
• lethargic
• eyes are bloodshot
• appears pale
• If you lift your dog's skin and it takes longer to fall back into place

7. NEVER leave your dog in the car on a hot day.... NEVER. 

If  you suspect your dog has heat stroke, call your vet immediately! Also remember that dogs can get sunburned. If your dog has short fur, bald or very light skinned apply sunscreen.