Help Your Pup Beat the Heat

Water! Shade! If you have lived in NY for any period of time, you know the drill. We are sharing a short list of ideas for beating the heat and over-heating in these very warm months!

• Frozen treats! Ice, frozen pumpkin puree in a Kong, or frozen blueberries can help your dog cool off.

• Cooling bandanas, vests and mats are great for prolonged outside exposure.

• Limit physical exertion and watch for rapid panting.

• Water! Always have water for your dog to drink, and splash a little on their underbelly or neck to help them cool off.

Shorter walks are ok! You have permission! You can use indoor enrichment with food puzzles, snuffle mats, training games and homemade agility or tricks to enrich your dog's life on hot days.

Know your dog; some dogs do better in the heat than others. Of course, they are individuals. Observe closely: Are they stalling on a walk? Lying down a lot? Moving more slowly? How much are they panting and what is their body posture? Be careful, some dogs will overexert themselves and overheat leading to heat stroke. It's our job to help them not to make that mistake.