5 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR DOG COOL THIS SUMMER

Ark Crew • Jun 18, 2019

Summertime is a dog’s paradise - swimming, taking hikes, car rides with the windows down. Amid all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to monitor your pet for symptoms of dehydration and overheating. That’s why we compiled an easy guide to keep you and your best pal out and about all summer long.


*Signs of Overheating include:

  • Exhaustion
  • Sudden change in behavior or overall disinterest
  • Unable to catch their breath and excessive panting
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Collapsing


When you notice one or more of these symptoms, stop all play and exercise to decrease your dog’s heart rate. Find a shady or air conditioned spot, give your pet fresh water and cool him off with a wet towel or blanket. If symptoms persist or worsen, call your vet. Overheated dogs can suffer from heat stroke, cardiac arrest, seizures and more if owners do not treat symptoms.

Every dog handles the heat differently, but here are our top five tips for keeping them cool and comfortable in the heat:

1. STAY HYDRATED.

Avoid dehydration and pack a collapsible water bowl or water bottle adapter for easy water access. If you’re at the beach, offer your dog water often to keep them from slurping up salt water.


2. GO FOR A SWIM.

Take a hike along a river or go to the lake for a swim. Remember that swimming is exercise, so a dog can over exert themselves even when in the water.


3. TAKE BREAKS.

Even the most energetic pups need breaks, and some breeds will keep running until they collapse. If your dog is stubborn, lure him to a shady spot with a frozen treat.


4. CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME.

Avoid the hottest times of the day by scheduling your walks for early mornings and late evenings when the sun isn’t blaring down as hard.


5. GET THE RIGHT GEAR.

Cooling vests can help dogs regulate their body temperature. Dog shoes are not only adorable but also protect paws from hot surfaces such as sand and pavement. You can find affordable options at most local and online pet retailers.

Our crew is serious about having fun and staying safe. When your pets play at any of our daycare locations, they have access to fresh water, the ability to switch between indoor air conditioned play yards and shaded outdoor play yards, and are under the constant supervision of our trained and certified crew. We keep a watchful eye on your pets as if they were our own.

* Source: AKC Canine Health Foundation

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