The dog days of summer are just around the corner! While our canine pals love summertime activities like swimming, camping, and, of course, barbeques, the heat can be pretty tough on them. Read on as a Plano, TX vet discusses keeping Fido cool.

Water

Make sure Fido always has plenty of fresh water. Drop a few ice cubes into his bowl when it’s really hot out.

Shade

If Fido has a yard to patrol and chase squirrels around in, make sure that his outdoor area offers plenty of shade and shelter.

Activity

On really hot days, schedule Fido’s walks and playtimes for morning and evenings, when it’s cooler out. Don’t encourage him to run and play during the hottest part of the day.

Paw Care

Have you ever walked barefoot on hot tar or sand? Ouch! Keep Fido’s nails trimmed, and use paw balm to protect his furry feet.

Grooming

Brushing Fido regularly will help keep him cooler, as removing dead hair and dander from your pet’s coat will help maximize the insulating properties of his fur. Some pups will also benefit from a cool summer ‘do. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Frozen Treats

Who doesn’t love a cool snack on a sweltering day? Pamper your furry pal with doggy ice cream, which you can find in most pet stores or groceries.

Kiddie Pool

Another way to keep Fido’s cute tail wagging is to give him a little kiddie pool to play in. Many dogs also love playing in the spray from garden hoses. Don’t forget to snap some pictures of your furry companion having fun!

Swimming

If your canine buddy likes the water, by all means, let him go swimming. Just be sure to put safety first. Never leave Fido unattended near water, and avoid places with deep water or strong currents. If you take your dog to a pool, it’s also important to make sure he knows where the stairs are. Ask your vet for more information.

Trips

You can also pamper your furry friend with a trip to a beach, park, or doggy café. However, you should never leave Fido in a car unattended. This is extremely dangerous, as the temperatures inside a vehicle can reach deadly levels very quickly. Please contact us, your Plano, TX animal clinic, with any questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care. We’re here to help! Click here for more info on dog swimming tips this summer.