When the summer months arrive we all rush inside for the nice cool air conditioning.  Shelter from the hot sun and a nice cold glass of water offer a welcome reprieve.  But, while we know how to keep ourselves comfortable and safe from the summer heat, it is important that we do not forget our 4-legged friends.  Yes, shade, air conditioning, and proper hydration are summer staples for humans, but they are for dogs as well!  Without proper care, the summer months can be dangerous for dogs but fortunately, there are things we can do to protect our dogs during the summer.  Do these 4 things to keep your dog cool and safe this summer!

4 Things to Keep Your Dog Cool & Safe This Summer

1. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration
   • The warm temperatures and scalding-hot sun can dehydrate a dog very quickly. Even if their time outside is limited, they can still become dehydrated when it is so hot.  It is important to offer your dog plenty of cool water.  Throw some ice cubes in the bowl to keep the water cold and refreshing.  And, if you are on the go, hydration is still important.  Bring a water bottle with cold water and a bowl and take frequent breaks to offer your dog some water so that they do not become dehydrated.
2. Play in the Morning and/or Evening
   • Your dog may get restless being cooped up inside all day but the afternoon is not an ideal time for outside play. Let them get their energy out in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are a bit cooler.  Exercising and walking in the morning will not only be healthier for you but for your dog, and then they can focus on inside play and rest the rest of the day.
3. Take a Dip!
   • There are few things that are more refreshing than a swim in the pool or a cold shower on a hot dog. Your dog, whether they love water or not, can benefit from the same cooling off that you do.  Get a play pool or wading pool for your dog to jump in and out of to keep cool, bring them in the pool with you if they know how to swim, or give them a nice cool rinse in the bath or shower.  This will cool their bodies down and protect them from overheating.
4. Protect Their Paws
   • That sidewalk that gets so hot you could fry an egg is probably not going to feel very good on your dog’s feet. If you would not walk barefoot on the sidewalk or patio, your dog probably should not either.  It can burn their paws, causing injury and pain.  Either avoid pavement that is too hot or invest in some booties for your dog that offer insulation and protection from the hot pavement, just like shoes do for your feet.