5 Ways to Keep Your Pet Cool

“Do what we can, summer will have its flies.” (Ralph Waldo Emerson).

While we may love the warmth and opportunity of bright summer days, handling the summer heat can be, well…as pesky as dealing with flies. 

The same is true for our pets.

On especially hot days, my dog Kelly sprawls in the coolest corner of the house to keep comfortable. I turn on a tower fan—the kind that stands on the floor—to cool at her level, rather than up at windows or tabletops.

Here are some other tips for keeping your pet cool this summer.

1. Fill that bowl.
The best way to keep your dog cool and comfortable is to provide plenty of fresh water all day. Some dogs won’t drink warm water. Adding a few ice cubes to his bowl will help. Take a portable water bowl along whenever you’re away from the house.

2. Create some water fun.
You might provide your dog with a shallow kiddie pool, or invite him to join in with a splash under the sprinkler. You can gently spray her with a hose. Kelly balks at the hose, so I use a garden watering can instead.

3. Protect hot paws.
Your shoes protect your feet from the hot pavement, but your dog’s tender pads could get burned. Avoid walking in the street or on hot sidewalks, and opt for grass instead. Or walk your dog in the cooler part of the evening.

4. Consider a hair cut.
Many owners shave their dogs down in the summer. But, according to Webvet some breeds need their fur to protect them and actually keep them cooler. Check with your veterinarian or groomer to decide what’s best for your pet.

5. Be careful in the car.
Never leave your dog unattended in the car, even with windows cracked. Even if you park in the shade. It only takes a few minutes for the heat to build up, which could lead to heat stroke.

Your dog is a part of your family. By keeping him cool and comfortable, you can include him on a hike, picnic, or other outing—and that’s one part of summer that’s always fun!