Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

by Dr. Jessica Vogelsang

With summer temperatures soaring, it's a good time to ensure your dog is keeping safe and cool. Heat stroke is one of the leading causes of veterinary emergency room visits for dogs during the summer. Here's how you can avoid any of those dreaded trips.

Safety First

Dogs should always have a source of shade and water when they are outside. If it's uncomfortably warm for you, assume it is the same for your pet. Short-nosed breeds, like bulldogs and pugs, are especially susceptible to heat-related illness. Owners of these dogs therefore need to be extra vigilant on those warm days.

Cooling Gadgets

There are lots of great products on the market to help dogs beat the heat. Here are some of the best:

Cooling Bandana

A simple way to help your dog feel frosty, this bandana uses cold water to provide a comfortable, cooling sensation.

Freezy Pups

This cute tray comes with four flavors of low-calorie treat mixes that you combine with water and then freeze. After the ice cubes form, your pet can enjoy frozen cheddar treats.

Handi-Drink Dog Bottle

Some dogs refuse to drink from a water bottle, making warm-day walks a challenge. This clever design features the convenience of a bottle with the usability of a dog bowl, so no matter where you go, your pooch can stay hydrated.

Water Dog. This ingenious device turns any outdoor faucet into an automatic drinking fountain, ensuring your dog always has a ready supply of cold water in the yard.

Hydration and shade are the keys to beating the heat this summer. Take care of those and you can enjoy the weather with your furry pal.

Dr. Jessica Voselsang is a small animal veterinarian and pet aficionado from San Diego. When she's not at work or with her family of two- or four-legged creatures, you can find her blogging about life with pets at PawCurious.com

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