It's a Cool, Cool Summer

First we bought them a huge, self-filling water bowl. This bowl is large enough for several dogs to use and is heavy when full of water. George can't dump it, pick it up and walk around with it. It holds 15 gallons of water, hooks to the hose and refills itself to the desired level. The dogs like it and we like it even more.

I like to give them a good spray down with the hose to cool them off. George loves it. Rocky runs away and hides. But when I can spray them both, it cools them down pretty considerably.

We are toying with the idea of getting them a kiddie pool to play in. Be sure to keep your kiddie pool in the shade to keep the water from heating up and change the water often to prevent bugs from breeding in it. Be sure that little dogs can easily get out of the pool and always supervise your dogs during pool playtime.

Try soaking a bandana in water and freezing it. When your dog heats up on his walk, cool him off with a frosty bandana.

Be sure that your dogs have plenty of shade when they are outside. Even if your yard is naturally shady, be sure that they have some sort of permanent shade to get out of the sun.

Nothing is better on a hot day than a tasty cold treat! Frosty Paws frozen treats are a great way to reward your dog and cool him down. Keep an eye on him when he eats it as some dogs will consume the treat AND the cardboard cup. Frosty Paws can be purchased at most grocery stores in the ice cream aisle.

There are also a few things to remember to keep your dog safe:

• When walking your dog, remember that the pavement is hot. It can damage his paws.
• Some pug-nosed breeds like Pugs and Boston Terriers can have breathing issues during hot months. Be sure to keep them properly cooled down.
• NEVER leave your dog in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. Cars can heat up to 120 degrees within 10 minutes. If you can't take your dog inside, please leave him at home.
• If you have a swimming pool, be sure to always supervise your dog while he is in the pool. Consider adding a life jacket to your dog's pool wear to be extra safe.

With a little ingenuity, safety and common sense, your dog can have fun and stay cool all summer long!

Photo used with permission from PKMousie under the Creative Commons license.