Wow the sun has certainly returned full force this last day or two!! I hope that you are all managing to find some time to top up your vitamin D!
In this heat though, please don’t forget about your 4 legged friends... they are not always as sensible as we are and forget about things like water and shade if we don’t encourage them... for those pale nosed dogs, a little sunblock is always a good idea too.
A few pointers/ideas to help your dogs stay cool...
1. Please do keep refreshing your dog‘s water bowl so it’s cool and keep it in the shade - lead them to it from time to time and remind them also!!
2. Make sure they have access to a shaded area, preferably an area that is always in the shade so its not heated up anytime in the sun... you can always soak a towel in cold water and lay it out for them too.
3. A great way to cool your dog down is to wet it’s feet - if it isn’t into a full soaking or paddling pool - the pads are a key place they release heat from their body so cooling those down at least will help their overall body temperature.
4. Frozen natural yoghurt cubes are a great favourite with most dogs... simply fill your ice cube tray the night before and they can have a tasty, refreshing and cooling treat throughout the day!
5. DON’T walk your dog between 11am and 3pm as this is the hottest time of the day... ideally early morning and late evening walks will much more enjoyable for your dog... always take fresh water for them too!
6. NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG IN THE CAR! I would like to think everyone knew this by now but sadly every year we hear stories of dogs dying in vehicles from overheating and dehydration. It is never ok to leave your dog in a vehicle even if the windows are open and it has water! If you need to go somewhere and the dog might be left, leave them at home instead!!! It’s really not worth the risk!
So that’s just a few tips for keeping your dog cool during the summer... please do feel free to comment below!
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with any queries or any requests for other dog training blogs you’d like to see!
Enjoy the sunshine!!!
Helen
Helping Canines
Dog Behaviourist & Trainer
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