Summer heatwaves can be dangerous for dogs. They can't regulate their temperature the way we do, and heatstroke can set in faster than you'd think. Here are eight simple ways to keep your dog safe and comfortable when temperatures soar.
1. Walk Early or Late
Avoid walks between 10am and 4pm. Stick to early morning or evening when the ground is cooler. If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws.
2. Always Have Fresh Water Available
Keep multiple water bowls around the house and garden. Add ice cubes to keep it cool longer. Take water with you on any outing.
3. Create a Cool Space Indoors
Draw curtains on sun-facing windows and set up a cool spot with a damp mat or cooling pad. Fans help circulate air but don't cool like air con, so make sure your dog can move away from them.
4. Try Frozen Treats
Freeze raw food, broth, or natural treats in a Kong or ice cube tray. It keeps them entertained and helps cool them from the inside. Our raw frozen range is perfect for this!
5. Never Leave Them in a Car
Even with windows cracked, a car can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes. Not even for a quick errand.
6. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke
Heavy panting, drooling, glazed eyes, vomiting or collapse are all warning signs. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool shaded area immediately and pour cool (not cold) water over their body, focusing on the neck, armpits and groin. Let them drink small amounts of cool water if they're able to. Then get to a vet straight away, even if they seem to recover. Heatstroke can cause internal damage that isn't always visible.
7. Paddling Pools and Sprinklers
Many dogs love a shallow paddling pool in the garden. Even just wetting their paws and belly can make a big difference.
8. Try a Cooling Coat
Cooling coats work by using evaporation to lower your dog's body temperature. Simply soak in cold water, wring out and pop it on before a walk. They're brilliant for dogs that struggle in the heat and well worth having in your summer kit.
Next Blog: Is Raw Feeding Right for Your Dog?
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