It may be September, but it’s still extraordinarily hot with record highs being recorded nearly every day! As pet parents, that means how can we keep our furry friends cool when the temperature is sizzling?
Do you know how to cool down your dog when the heat is turned up high? There are a few tricks, and you don’t have to spend a lot either.
My dog, Henry, loves my tricks, especially his cooling vest. So, grab yourself a large glass of iced tea, your furry buddy, and let’s dig in and discover how to cool down your dog in the heat of summer.
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Budget Tip:
The best part of how to keep your dog cool in summer is that you don't need to spend a lot of money. If you do buy special items, they can generally be used for many summers. In my opinion, anything that helps keep our dogs cool, healthy, and happy, is generally worth it. In short, keeping your dog cool is definitely budget-friendly and a huge win-win for you and your dog!
1. Splash Pad
Both kids and dogs enjoy splash pad fun. I’m always surprised at how durable and economical they are for your dog’s backyard.
This is a fun splash pad your dog may enjoy, and your kids, too!
2. Dog and Kiddie Swim Pool
I remember summer fun in my little kiddie pool with my dog. Can you believe they are now durable and are even foldable to make it easy to use season after season? Wow! Progress!
This is a fun, portable, and foldable kiddie pool. I have this one for Henry!
3. Splash Sprinklers
Summer fun for kids and dogs wouldn’t be the same without the classic sprinkler fun. Who hasn’t run through a sprinkler and loved it?
4. Water Hose Fun
This one never gets old. It’s like tag, but with the hose. Whoever has the hose is king or queen, and the dog is happy to supervise and get wet on both sides.
Learn how to create the dog backyard of your dreams on a budget in this article.
5. Cooling Mat
A cooling mat generally works better inside. However, it does help keep your dog cool. It may not do such a great job of getting him cool, but it does help with keeping your pup cool. Here’s one your dog may love!
6. Wet Towel
If your dog is looking like he’s getting overheated, a wet towel is always a perfect go-to trick for a quick temperature drop. But never cool your dog too quickly. That means don’t soak the towel in ice water. Cool or room temperature water will do the trick.
7. Dog Cooling Fashion
My dog has enjoyed a cooling vest since nearly the day I adopted him. I’m always surprised at how long it stays cool. On extremely hot days, it will stay cool for about 5-6 hours.
Here are other cooling fashions your dog may love!
8. Ice Water
Put a few ice cubes in your pup’s water to help drop your buddy’s temperature. Also, many dogs like to drink more water with ice. Some dogs even love to play with ice cubes.
9. Frozen Chew Toys
Just like you enjoy something cool or cold on a hot day, so will your dog. It will help keep him cool. All you need to do is grab his/her favorite durable toy and pop it in the freezer for a bit. If you don’t have a freezer-friendly dog toy, this is one your pup may love!
10. Frozen Treats
Similar to a frozen chew toy, this will help cool your dog off. However, it won’t last as long. Some dogs don’t like toys or don’t understand toys as well, like my dog Henry. This is a great option for these dogs.
In this post, I talk about various treats for your dog, including frozen treats.
How to protect your dog from the hot summer heat
Now that you know how to keep your dog this summer, don’t overlook simple hazards and easy ways to prevent harm.
Note: If your dog appears to be struggle with the heat (drooling, confused, excessive panting, vomiting, seizures, diahrea, unresponsive) do not try to cool your pup too fast. It could cause more issues. Gently try to lower the your buddy's temperature with shade, wet (not cold) towel, fan, and rush to your vet immediately. Never put your dog in an ice bath or pour water down your pup's mouth.
1. Water
Make sure your dog has lots of water during the summer. Water is especially critical for dogs in summer. Remember, not only will he drink more water, but his water will evaporate quickly as well. Also, don’t forget to clean his water at least once a day. This will help to encourage him to drink as well.
2. Dog Booties
Your dog’s paws are delicate. Paw booties are great to protect them from hot sidewalks, rough rocks, toxic weeds and plants, chemicals, and cold in the winter. Surprisingly, it only takes a few minutes for most dogs to adjust to wearing booties.
3. Sunscreen
Just as you need to protect your skin from sunburns and skin cancer, you also need to protect your dog’s skin in the same manner. However, it’s important to select a sunscreen that is free of zinc oxide and PABA. Both are toxic to dogs.
Learn more about the details of sunscreen for dogs and pets in this article.
4. Shade
One of the best ways to cool down a dog is to find a shady spot. That can be under a tree, in your house, under a chair, or under an umbrella. Don’t forget to have cool water nearby.
Learn how creating shade in your yard benefits your dog and wallet in this article.
5. Exercise In The Early Morning Hours
By exercising in the early hours of the day, you and your dog will escape the majority of the summer heat. When the temperature rises, it’s difficult for humans to be outside, but your pup has a fur coat. That makes it downright dangerous!
In this post, I talk about fun exercises for you and your dog.
6. Car
Never, ever leave your dog in a closed hot car. If you see a dog in a locked, hot car unattended, please call 911 immediately! A dog can go into distress inside a hot car within minutes, which means time is of the essence.
You may want to review your local laws regarding dogs in hot cars. Some areas will allow you to break the windows. Other areas will only permit authorities to break the windows and free the innocent pup. Either always act quickly!
7. Heatstroke
You may be surprised at how quickly a heatstroke can happen with a dog. Some signs are excessive panting, thick saliva, staggering, and muscle tremors. If you see any of these signs, rush to your vet!
8. Dehydration
Some signs of dehydration may be difficult to see. A few signs to look for are sunken eyes and lethargy. Also, you can check hydration levels by pinching the skin on the back of your dog’s neck. If the skin is slow to return to normal, then your dog is most likely dehydrated.
In this article, learn how giving your dog the proper amount of clean water saves you money.
9. Humidity
Your dog’s ability to cool himself will be determined by the humidity. Keep your eyes on the humidity levels. If you are experiencing high humidity, keep your dog in the shade, inside, and provide lots of water.
10. Water Intoxication
Did you know your dog could experience water intoxication? This type of water issue generally happens when playing or swimming, and too much water is swallowed. A dog can die from water intoxication. Thus, if you suspect your dog is having an issue, rush to your vet!
11. Toxic or Contaminated Water
Some dogs unknowingly swim in algae-filled waterways. One of the main problems is blue-green algae. A water source infested with this type of algae can make your dog very sick. If blue-green algae water is ingested, it can be a fatal disaster. Pay attention to where your dog swims or plays.
12. Drowning
While most dogs are natural swimmers, not all dogs can swim, and not all dogs are strong swimmers. Don’t assume that your dog can swim. Make sure your dog can swim. If you are on a boat, invest in a dog-sized life vest; it could literally be a life-saver.
Learn how to keep your dog safe around water in this article.
13. Fleas and Ticks
Always do a thorough check of your dog when you’ve been out hiking or outdoors. Carefully remove ticks if necessary. If fleas are detected, bathe your dog with flea shampoo, comb his fur with a flea comb, and do regular inspections.
However, if you’re not sure if fleas are the source of your dog’s itchiness, try rubbing him/her with a white towel. If you see black specks, then fleas are an issue.
14. Rattlesnakes
Many dogs are curious about the sound of rattlesnakes. One strike can be deadly. There are rattlesnake aversion classes. Also, there is a rattlesnake vaccine available in many areas. Discuss your best options with your veterinarian.
If you are uncertain about what the rattlesnake vaccine is all about, this article explains it.
15. Bugs and Vermin
There are many summer bugs, which are more active in the summer and are very dangerous for dogs and humans, such as scorpions, black widows, brown recluses, and fire ants. Additionally, be careful if your dog finds a dead mouse or a little critter. They will generally want to eat it.
However, if the rodent is dead, it may have been poisoned. Watch your dog. If he has a sudden lack of appetite, extreme salivation, heavy breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased urination, acting abnormally, or you suspect a poison issue, do not try to induce vomiting at home. It could cause more issues.
Instead, rush your dog to your veterinarian or call a pet poisoning hotline such as Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435. Keep in mind that these hotlines may charge for their services.
16. Weeds and Toxic Plants
While some plants and bushes are toxic if eaten, others are just an irritant if peed on, such as rose bushes. Goat head weeds and foxtails are a sort of locking weed that you need to examine your dog’s paws, legs, and underbelly for when he comes in from outside. If he ingests these weeds could get lodged in his throat, requiring a veterinarian visit and possible surgery. This is another good reason for booties or even a foxtail mask to prevent your dog from encountering these weeds head-on.
Discover the best perennial flowers to plant in your dog-friendly yard in this article.
17. Chemicals
Be careful of weed, bug, and rodent killers. You don’t want your dog to walk on or eat any of these. Another reason to get your pup booties and careful watch of your dog at all times.
This article has a list of household pet poisons you might have overlooked.
18. Fireworks and Thunder
Loud noises will scare even some of the calmest dogs. Try to keep your dog calm. Put on other noises, such as a radio to distract, make sure to have a safe space for your pup, and make sure to provide lots of water. Some people have luck with CBD and other alternative products like Thundershirts or calming beds.
Although if your dog is beyond these tactics, you may need to consult your veterinarian for help and a prescription to help calm your dog on these extreme days.
How does keeping your dog cool in the summer save money?
You may never think about the cost savings of keeping your pup cool in the summer, but there are some incredible benefits. Consider the following for a moment.
| Issue | Estimated Cost Savings |
| Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke | $200 – 600+ |
| Dehydration | $200 – 800+ |
| Drowning | $1,000 – 15,000+ |
| Healthy and happy pup | PRICELESS!!! |
Related posts:
- My Dog Loves Savings Accounts. Surprised?
- A Dog Friendly Backyard On A Budget
- Do Dog Cooling Vests Help Summer Dogs?
- What Is The Best Treat For My Dog?
- Fun in the Sun: How Sunscreen for Dogs Can Save You Money
- Shady Paws! How Dog Shade Saves Money!
- Great Exercises With Dogs
- Steps To Stay Calm With Your Dog When Your Car Breaks Down
- 8 Awesome Reasons Your Dog Needs Water
- Dirty Water Risks To Avoid With Your Dog
- Splash-Worthy! Essential Dog Water Safety Is Money-Wise!
- Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine Debunked: What’s Best for Your Pup?
- 17 Dog Safe Perennial Flower Guide: Beauty on a Budget!
- Cuddly Cute! A Dog Heartbeat Stuffed Animal
- Creating Dog Safe Spaces: Easy and Cheap
Tricks to your cool dog when summer doesn’t want to end!
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A never-ending summer can mean some fun continues. But when it’s a scorcher still in September, you have to be mindful of the furry friends. Honestly, it doesn’t take much to keep your dog cool on hot days.
For me, my dog, Henry, does well with a cooling vest. I was actually surprised at how much it helped him. However, when he needs more cooling, I’ll help him by splashing him down with cool (not ice-cold) water. Actually, I don’t mind the cool water on a hot day either.
