Easy Ways to Keep Your Pet Cool This Summer

For most people, summer is one of the best times of the year: the sun is shining, the days are longer, and there are plenty of fun outdoor activities to keep us busy. The "dog days of summer" are also the perfect time to enjoy some dog-friendly activities with your pet. Remember that regardless of the season, dogs are always attired in a full length fur coat, so they need a little help to make sure they don't overheat. Before you head outside for some summertime fun with your dog, here are some ways you can help your pet stay cool, hydrated, and healthy this summer.

Summer Accessories for Dogs
Since dogs don't sweat like humans do, the primary way they stay cool is by panting. As a dog breathes in cooler air, warm air is expelled. But all this panting uses lots of water, so it's extra-important to make sure your dog has plenty of cool water available at all times and stays hydrated. One way to encourage your dog to drink more water is with a pet drinking fountain. The fountain recirculates and filters the water, making it fresher-tasting and more enticing to drink.

When you and your pet are away from home, it's not practical to bring along a pet drinking fountain. But with a little advance planning, you can still keep your dog hydrated and nourished. When packing your pet supplies for the day's adventures, don't forget to include water and snacks for your dog.

The Cool Bed is another convenient way to help your dog stay cool when you're away from home, at the beach or on a summer trip, and it's the perfect summer bed for your dog. Just fill it with water and you've instantly created a cool, refreshing spot on which your dog can relax. It can be used indoors or outdoors and when your dog is done relaxing, just empty the water and roll it up for easy storage.
Long summer days are perfect for spending hours outside, but did you know some pets may also be at risk of developing skin cancer? With a natural sunscreen product like My Dog Nose It Sun Protection, you can have peace of mind knowing your pet's nose, ears, and exposed skin are protected against potentially harmful UV rays. Plus, it's water-resistant!

Summer Dog Toys
Whether your dog is having a playdate at the local dog park, heading to the beach or pool, or just hanging out in the backyard, you'll want to choose durable pet toys that can withstand exposure to sun, sand, water as well as some high-spirited play. Toys like the Booda Tail-Spin Flyer offer all the fun of a flying plastic disc toy, but because it's soft and flexible, it's gentle on your dog's teeth and gums. Plus, it floats which makes it the perfect toy to bring to the beach, lake, or pool.