Lakes and Las
Staying ‘Cool’ With Your Canine ENJOY THE WEATHER WHILE KEEPING YOUR PUP COMFORTABLE With all this late-summer sunshine, it’s the perfect time to take your dog out for some fun. And while spending time basking in nature’s beauty can be a great source of fun and exercise for you and your pets, it’s important to keep a careful watch on your dog’s core temperature to prevent heat exhaustion. There are several detectable signs of heat exhaustion that you can watch for, including abnormal lethargy, vomiting, or a brightly colored blue or red tongue. Here are some tips to keep your canine cool this summer. While certain dog breeds thrive in hotter climates, all pups need a little extra care when it comes to staying hydrated during the summer. For starters, always make sure they have ready access to drinkable water. If you are going on an adventure, consider bringing a collapsible water bowl. If you are doing some backyard chilling, consider filling up a small wading pool with water for your pooch to splash or lounge in. Water in All Its Forms
Hello all!
This is Vayda. I’m a German shepherd who lives with Patsy Tiernan, one of the veterinary technicians at The Animal Clinic of Kalispell. I’ve been by Patsy’s side since I was just 9 weeks old. I first saw Patsy when she passed by my kennel to meet my mom and dad at the breeder and their beautiful farm. She didn’t know I was the puppy she would be taking home, but I knew right then that Patsy was going to be my best friend.
I’ve been with Patsy for 12 years, and we always have so much fun together. We go swimming at the river all the time, which is one of my favorite things in the world. Patsy also gives me great treats that keep my teeth clean and lets me play with everyone I meet. I love people, kids, dogs, and even cats! I love hanging out with kittens more than I like hanging out with anyone else — besides Patsy, of course!
I’m told I’m in really great shape for a German shepherd. My hips are strong and I still have tons of energy. I credit my good health in part to
Some Invaluable Inventions
Doggie Ice Cream We’re well into the dog days of summer when humans and canines alike are looking for ways to beat the heat. This month, we have another frozen treat your dog will adore! Note: Make sure your dog isn’t lactose-intolerant before serving them yogurt.
There are many contraptions to help you keep your canine cool in the summer heat. Booties to insulate their toes and protect their paw pads from the hot asphalt, cooling vests that reflect sunlight off darker fur, and pressure-activated cooling pads are just a few of the gizmos you can purchase to stave off those scorching temps.
The Dog People, a website powered by Rover.com, also recommends making frozen “pupsicles,” a yogurt-based frozen treat that can satisfy doggy cravings while keeping them cool.
Time Is of the Essence
While fun water toys and helpful cooling inventions are great, the
best thing you can do to keep your dog cool is be careful about when you decide to go outside. Taking your pup out in the early morning or later in the evening, when the
Ingredients
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2 cups plain yogurt
1 ripe banana
sun isn’t at its highest point in the sky, will help keep them cooler in the long run. Additionally, keep in mind that some breeds deal with the heat better than others. If you’re unsure, do a little research to determine your dog’s susceptibility to heat exhaustion.
1/3 cup xylitol-free peanut butter
Just because the heat is sizzling doesn’t mean your dog should be! Keep these tips in mind before taking your canine out in the summer sun. They will thank you for it!
Inspired by Food with Feeling
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