Keep your pooches cool this summer

With much of the country set to reach temperatures in the high 30’s and above this week, we thought it would be timely to share some tips and tricks for keeping your dogs cool while the temperature soars….

1. Water, water, water – Dogs need access to cool, fresh water at all times during hot weather. If your dogs are left alone during the day it’s a good idea to leave a couple of bowls of water out so that if one is knocked over (or contents emptied by a splashing pooch) then they still have access to another.
2. Clam shell pools/sandpits – These are a great way for the water-loving dog to cool off. You can usually find the blue, plastic, clam shell pools at stores like Bunnings, Toys R Us, Target or Kmart. For dogs who aren’t so keen on getting wet, you can fill half of the clam shell with sand. Wet the sand on hot days and your dog will love digging a hole and to lie in.
3. Frozen treats – Frozen bones and kongs are a great summer treat for dogs. Or why not try freezing some chicken necks, dog biscuits, small pieces of cheese, and/or dried liver in an ice-cream container filled with water (and flavoured with a little chicken stock). The giant ice-block should keep them entertained as well as cool.
4. Walkies – On hot days try to limit your walks to early morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler. Also remember that concrete and bitumen roads and paths may be hot enough to burn your dog’s feet.
5. Cooling bandana – Special doggie cooling bandanas can be soaked and refrigerated before use to keep your dogs cool for hours. Check them out at Pets Plus.

Common signs of heat stroke in dogs include excessive panting, distress, restlessness, and rising body temperature (they may feel hot to touch). They may also be drooling excessively and be unsteady on their feet, and the colour of their gums may be either bluish purple or bright red. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke you should remove them immediately from the hot environment, cool them using a cold bath or hose over the back of the neck, maintain airflow over your wet pet using fans or an airconditioner, and seek veterinary attention.