Summer will be in full swing here before we know it and many areas are already experiencing hot temps. Keeping your dog cool and hydrated during high temperatures is crucial! Heat exhaustion and dehydration can be fatal and can happen quickly. Continue reading for tips and tricks on how to keep your dog hydrated, refreshed, and cool this summer!
1. Cucumber Water: Just like it is a delightful drink for humans, it's also a great one for dogs. It keeps them hydrated, replenishes electrolytes, and cools them off. To make: Soak sliced organic, if possible, cucumbers in water and share with your dog. Leave the cucumbers in their bowl or take them out and feed to your dog as a low calorie vitamin-rich snack! You can leave the peels on or off.
2. Frozen Stuffed Kong: Stuff a kong toy with pumpkin puree, cooked/canned mashed sweet potato, watermelon, or peanut butter and pop in the freezer for a few hours. Give to your dog for a refreshing icy cool treat that lasts a long time.
3. Fruit Smoothie Popsicles: Blend a banana with water or orange juice. Then add blueberries, strawberries, mango, or watermelon (or all 4). Pour into popsicle molds (or ice cube trays) and insert stick. Freeze for several hours/overnight. Then, pull a popsicle out and let your dog lick away. V-Dog also has even more recipe ideas!
4. Banana Ice Cream: Bananas are packed with electrolytes and potassium and this sweet treat will have your dog feeling super refreshed and ready for more playtime! Break a banana into chunks and freeze 8 hours or overnight. Pop into a blender or food processor and blend, using a plunger or spoon, until it turns into a creamy ice cream consistency. Add a dash of water if necessary. Dogs will go nuts over this tasty creamy non-dairy ice cream and it's really great to share with you and your dog!
5. Baby Food Pops: Don't feel like creating your own frozen treat? Grab some baby food from the store and freeze the whole thing in its container for a few hours. Then, serve.
6. Bobbing for Peas: Fill a kiddie pool with water and throw some frozen peas in and let your dog bob for peas! A really fun brain game that also cools off your dog.
References:
Dr. Karen Becker
https://www.gonedogmad.com/
https://www.thesprucepets.com/
