The PetCot Company: 8 Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

Summertime sparks the desire to get the family outdoors more often. And of course, you don't want to leave Sparky behind - after all, your pets are family too, right? While we always want to include our fur babies in family fun, it's important to remember that all that fur may not mix well with the warmer temperatures of summer. So, this week the PetCot Company has decided to share with you 8 tips to keep your furry buddy cool while enjoying summer fun with the family:

1. Don’t leave your pet in an unattended vehicle.

On a 75-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can climb up to 115 degrees within an hour. Even with the windows down, a dog can easily overheat if left in these conditions. If you need to run errands and don't feel comfortable leaving your dog home alone take it to a doggy day care. It’ll save you the trouble of worrying about your dog while you’re out.

2. Avoid walking on hot surfaces like asphalt.

Your pup’s paws can be as sensitive as the soles of your feet. If the asphalt is too hot for you to walk on, chances are it’s too hot for your pup too. On a walk, try to alternate between asphalt, sidewalk, and grass so that your dog’s delicate paws don’t get overheated. If your dog is particularly sensitive, cover his paws with pet booties so he can stroll comfortably.

3. Supply lots of fresh, clean water.

Some dogs get a bit finicky with their water if there’s an odd scent in the bowl or if it’s been warming up in the sun for a while. Keeping a fresh, clean supply of H2O in your dog’s dish will ensure that your pup drinks more often and stays hydrated.

4. Don’t overexercise pets.

Dogs don’t always know their own limits. If you can tell your dog is breathing more rapidly or having some trouble chasing after a ball, slow things down and allow him to cool off. Outdoor activities are great but, instead of playing in the blazing afternoon sun, try tossing a ball around as the sun is setting.

5. Leave your dog at home on hot days.

Going to the beach and sitting out all day in the sun is something we humans enjoy, but it can leave pooches severely dehydrated. Even if you feel like the heat is bearable, remember, when dogs are exposed to moderately high temperatures over an extended period of time, their bodies might be unable to cool down.

6. Watch for signs of dehydration.

Dogs can't sweat. They cool off by panting, so an overheated dog will drool excessively. It will become lethargic, its eyes will be bloodshot, and it may appear a little pale. If you lift its skin, it will take longer than usual for the skin to fall back into place.

7. Take your dog swimming.

The best activity you can do in summertime or hot weather is swimming. Instead of walking the dog, take the dog on a swim! If you hold on and allow your dog to take you around the pool, it becomes a powerful bonding experience for the two of you, similar to the walk.

8. Get your dog a raised bed.

PetCot raised dog beds provide optimal comfort and support for dogs (and other pets) of all sizes. Our unique elevated dog bed allows your pet to rest easy while maintaining a comfortable body temperature all around. Durable and breathable, it provides dogs with a healthy, cool environment.

Now that you have some tips to go by to keep your best friend cool this summer, get out there and have some fun! Just remember to keep an eye on your pooch and keep them cool and hydrated. Don't forget to swing by our website to order your pup a premium raised dog bed to rest comfortably on after a fun day enjoying the summer activities you are bound to have a blast doing!

Taking Comfort and Care to a New Level for Pets!