5 ways to keep your pet cool in the summer

Ooh, it’s been a hot summer! If you’ve been feeling the heat, just know that your dog and cat are too, which is why it’s important to think about their safety and comfort in hot weather. We share some tips below for how to keep your pet cool as a cucumber.  

Hydration is everything

Just like humans, hydration is super important for dogs. Not only does it help with things like digestion, cognitive function, nutrient absorption, and, well, keeping them alive, it helps them regulate their body temperature, which in turn helps with overheating. You’ll want to make sure your pet’s water bowl is always filled with clean and cool water, and if you notice symptoms of lethargy, panting, confusion, dry nose or mouth, or loss of skin elasticity, it’s time to contact your vet right away. 

Pupsicles and other cool treats

Your pet needs access to fresh, clean water all the time, but you can also give them an occasional treat like a delicious pupsicle (“catsicle” doesn’t really sound right). You can now commonly find these in your grocery store, but if you’d like to make your own, there are a bevy of pet-friendly icy treat recipes available online. If your pet has a tender tummy, talk to your vet first about which treat to give them, and definitely avoid items that have chocolate or xylitol in them — both of these ingredients can be deadly to pets. 

Fun (not) in the sun 

If your pet loves to go for walks, switch your walk time to earlier or later in the day when the air is cooler. If it’s too hot outside for you, it’s too hot for your little cutie! Plus, hot asphalt can burn their feet. If your pet has trouble with the heat and they’re inside the house, make sure they have access to fans or air conditioning. 

Other ways to keep ’em cool

Did you know there are cooling products specifically designed to keep your pet comfortable? Maybe your pup would like to rest on a cooling mat, or your furry feline would like to don a cooling vest? Does your pet need a cooling bandana draped around their neck? Those exist too! Even more fun than a cooling accessory? A pet’s very own pool. Pet-sized pools are not only safer than human-sized pools, oceans, lakes, or rivers, they’re also affordable and easy to set up in your yard or on the go.