Follow these 5 top tips to keep your pup cool in the summer months!

Dogs are more prone to heatstroke than we are as they can only lose heat by panting, and sweat through their paws. That’s why it’s so important to protect them from a potential vets visit and keep them cool.

1. Avoid direct sunlight!

Provide shade – keep your dog out of direct sunlight when you can. This may sound like stating the obvious, but dogs can still get burnt! Many people will relish in the glorious sun and forget about their pup, who can’t get a tan or apply their own sun cream like their owner! You can even use pet-safe sun cream on the exposed parts of your dogs skin, like the tips of their ears and nose.

2. Hydration is key.

Make sure that your dog has access to fresh, cool water during warm weather. A constant supply of water should be available, with water bowls kept out of direct sunlight and topped up regularly to ensure that your dog is drinking and stayed hydrated. You may put ice cubes

If your dog finds it more encouraging to drink from running water, why not turn the hose on or invest in a pet water fountain? This not only allows them to enjoy drinking water, but will also keep the water cooler for longer periods of time.

3. Walk them at cooler times of the day.

Plan your adventures ahead, since a walk in the midday sun or the hottest temperatures can put your dog at risk of heatstroke. You should walk them either first thing in the morning or in the evening, if it is not too humid. A shorter walk in wooded areas is safer and more shaded than a play in the park.

There is also a risk of your dogs paw pads getting burnt on hot pavements. As a general guideline, if the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dogs feet.

4. Note the signs of heatstroke.

Contact your vet ASAP if you spot any of these signs in your dog. Signs of a heatstroke include:

• Heavy or rapid panting.
• Excessive drooling.
• Being sick, or diarrhea.
• Lethargy, lack of coordination, or confusion.
• Collapsing, or having seizures.

This is one of the reasons why you should never leave your dogs in vehicles such as cars and caravans, conservatories or outbuildings in the heat. Even if it’s for a short while, internal temperatures can quickly rise in these trapped spaces, which can be fatal.

5. Make it entertaining!

Your dog deserves some tasty iced treats. You can make them yourself using a Kong toy, or just by freezing some peanut butter or yogurt spread on a lick mat. You may also use frozen toys, paddling pools or water sprinklers to entertain and cool your dog down.