Summer has officially kicked off and Atlantic Canada has already had a few scorchers.
We keep ourselves cool all summer long with beach days, dips in the pool, and plenty of ice-cold drinks, but what about our furry friends?
Here are a few tips to keep your dogs nice and cool all summer long.
Pool time
While some dogs avoid water, others love going for a dip of their own. Of course, if you’re spending time at the lake or beach it’s only natural to let your pups dive in, but what about hot days at home? Consider treating your dog to a mini pool of their own that they can jump in whenever they need to cool off. If you’re lounging on the deck, soaking a towel in cold water and laying it in the shade provides a quick and easy cool-down station as well.
Icy treats
Many dog owners slip a few ice cubes in their dog’s water bowl during this time of year, but you can take this to the next level by making them a pupsicle! Fill a bowl with water and toss in a few dog-safe frozen berries, treats, or kibble. Stick it in the freezer for a few hours and then let your dogs enjoy. Not only does it cool them down, but hunting through the ice for the little treats will force the dog to drink more water without even knowing it.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Speaking of water, it’s so important to make sure your pets stay hydrated during warm days. If you’re taking your pups on long walks or hikes, make sure to bring along a collapsible water dish or bottle to keep them hydrated and happy. And don’t forget to keep a close eye on your pets’ water dishes at home: they may be drinking more during hot days, and you don’t want to leave them stuck with an empty bowl.
Know the signs
It’s important to know the signs of dehydration in dogs to make sure you can spring into action if need be. Common signs include sunken eyes, lethargy, and dry mouth. You may also notice your dog acting more withdrawn than usual; this is a good sign to check in and encourage them to drink some water. If your pups are hard to convince, try the pupsicle trick above or splash a little chicken broth into their water to get their interest.
We hope you and your pets stay happy, hydrated, and healthy this summer!
