If a dog is overheating and in danger of heatstroke, you will need to cool them down. Here are 12 ways to cool a dog down or prevent overheating.
- Make Wind. Turn on a dog-friendly fan and point it in their general direction (but not right at their face!)
- Dig The Ground. While not the most practical method, digging through the top layer of soil will reveal a cooler layer underneath. Your dog can lie in this.
- Swimming. A dog who is just hot, not yet overheating, can cool down in a body of water that is cool, but not cold.
- Grooming. Make sure to groom your dog regularly and trim their fur often. Do not, however, shave them completely, and if your dog is double-coated, read up on proper grooming.
- Wet Towel. Soak a towel in cool water, then place it on your dog’s underbelly and inner thighs.
- Cooling Vests. If your dog is going to be out in the heat, let them wear a cooling vest.
- Footbaths. For dogs without access to a swimming or kiddie pool, a footbath can work similarly. Fill it with cool, not cold water.
- Make Frozen Treats. Keep a supply of frozen treats to give your dog when it’s hot outside.
- Make The Area Cooler. Lead your dog to a non-carpeted area, close the doors, and keep the windows shaded.
- Shower. Take your dog to the bathroom and run tepid water over them to cool them off.
- Fresh Water. Make sure your dog always has fresh water available to drink.
- Air Conditioning. Turn on the air-con to keep the room cool. Make sure it’s not too cold.
Feature Image Source: Pixabay