Helping our furry friends stay healthy and happy when it’s hot is vital, so here are some clever tips on things you can do to help:
- Taken a bottle of frozen water with you on a journey. When you stop, pour the cool, melted water into a bowl – providing your pet with a refreshing, cooling drink. Keeping your dog hydrated is important!
- Place a small paddling pool in your garden – it offers the perfect place for your pooch to take a dip and cool down.
- Always provide areas of shade in your garden if your dog is outside for any length of time. Consider the movement of the sun to make sure shade is available at all times of the day.
- To cool your dog after a walk or journey in a car, soak a towel in cold water, ring it out and then place over your dog’s back.
- Use a fan indoors to keep the room temperature down. It will also help to open windows for ventilation, and keep blinds or curtains closed to keep the sun off.
- Avoid walking your dog during the hottest part of the day (between 11am and 3pm).
- Never leave your dog alone in a car – even with a window open.
- Talk to your vet about using pet sunscreen – certain breeds are susceptible to sunburn.
- Regular grooming – and clipping, for long haired dogs – will also help.