HOT TIPS FOR COOL DOGS

By Gail Mayhugh

Keep them cool with a water feature. If your dog loves to play and sit in water, get them a doggie pool. Whether a play pool or in-ground, always make sure they’re supervised.

What about a low freestanding fountain if a pool is not your thing. They’ll have fun trying to catch the water while you enjoy watching them. Practice water conservation by just putting it on when you’re home so you and Fido can enjoy it.

Whether you take your pup for a walk or they like spending time outside, remember that dogs regulate body temperature through their paws and panting. They don’t sweat as we do. A cooling collar is good for walks and pups like my Maggie who love to run around the yard. For those long walks or breeds prone to overheating, a cooling vest will keep them cooler longer. Time for a nap? A cooling bed is perfect for providing additional heat relief.

I believe that pets should always have access to water; my girls have three different places. What dog doesn’t like to play with ice in their water bowl, but they don’t last long outside, so try a cooling ceramic dog bowl. The bowls are made from a unique ceramic material that keeps the water cold for up to six hours.

Along with water, how about frozen bars? You can make them with a touch of freshly squeezed apples, strawberries, or chicken or beef bouillon.

It’s essential to provide proper shelter and shade when your pup is outside to cool down and prevent sunburn. Trees and patio covers are great, but not every yard has them. Portable sunshades, shaded pet beds, and pop-up canopies are perfect for creating shade in yards. Cots are also a good option as they provide extra cooling and air circulation, being it’s elevated off the ground. Some products combine the shade of a pop-up canopy with the cooling effect of a misting system. Place it on a timer to come on during the hottest time of the day.

Using a garden hose to wet down your dog will help, but it wastes water. Instead, consider using a mist creating attachment to your hose that sprays a very fine mist of water in a small area.

Mount Charleston is a great place to get out of the heat. If you and your pup are hiking companions, you can have a fun day exploring the trails it has to offer. Make sure to bring plenty of water for both of you. When my husband and I used to hike, he always told me that by the time you’re thirsty, you are dehydrated. Collapsible water bowls and travel bottles where the lid flips out into a bowl are easy to pack when you’re on the go.

We don’t have an ocean, but you’ll find lakes with beaches you can enjoy. Lake Las Vegas and Lake Mojave offer boating you can take your pets on. Make sure to have a life vest for both of you.

Want to take a swim? Head over to Lake Mead or Lake Mojave. You’ll find sandy beaches for a day in the sand and water play. There are also trails you can enjoy and take in the spectacular scenery.

As park rules can always change, please check if your pups are allowed before heading out.

Gail Mayhugh, the owner of GMJ Interior Design has been designing in Las Vegas for over 20 years. She also supports animal rescues and shelters through her non-profit, www.SeniorsToTheRescue.org.