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Australian Dog Lover
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It's getting hot, hot, hot around Australia and with temperatures regularly hitting 40 degrees, this summer is sizzling! As pet owners, it is our responsibility to ensure our dogs are kept cool and comfortable on those extreme hot days.
When dogs overheat, they sweat a small amount through the pads on their feet but they primarily cool off by panting. When it is extremely hot and humid, panting is not enough for dogs to cool themselves down. You need to provide alternative cooling methods to ensure your dog can efficiently cool down to avoid heat stress.
Here are our suggestions to help your dog cool off during the hot summer ahead!
FRESH COOL WATER & LOTS OF IT!
Ensure your dog’s water bowl is kept in a shady location and that you refresh the water frequently. We have three drinking stations around the house plus one outside so that our dogs are encouraged to drink more often. Depending on whether your dogs spend most of their time outside or indoors or are on the go with you, you could explore options such as an automatic water dispenser, a pet watering fountain or a travel bowl.
FRESH COOL WATER & LOTS OF IT!
Ensure your dog’s water bowl is kept in a shady location and that you refresh the water frequently. We have three drinking stations around the house plus one outside so that our dogs are encouraged to drink more often. Depending on whether your dogs spend most of their time outside or indoors or are on the go with you, you could explore options such as an automatic water dispenser, a pet watering fountain or a travel bowl.
Your dog(s) will never run out of drinking water again with an automatically refilling stainless steel Pet Rehydration Station.
This DK Stainless station is handmade in Australia from heavy duty stainless steel and built to last a lifetime. The station is fixed to the wall so it is impossible for your pet(s) to tip it over and destroy.
This station is suitable for most dog breeds, but if you need something bigger for larger dogs or a multi-dog household, there is an XL version.
RRP: from $295 at www.dkstainless.com.au
The water cascades out of the spout fitting you have set (5 options), aerating the water below and this makes it much more appealing for your pet to drink.The filter will catch large particles and the charcoal filters ensure that impurities, bad tastes and odours are removed from the water as the fountain runs.
RRP: $134.99 from store.intl.petsafe.net/en-au
The Road Refresher Bowl is the perfect way for you to keep your pet hydrated while on the move.
Its clever design minimises the risk of any water spilling, keeping floors dry. It can be filled with water and then safely left in your car, ute, 4WD or boat giving your pet access to fresh water whenever they want.
Its clever design minimises the risk of any water spilling, keeping floors dry. It can be filled with water and then safely left in your car, ute, 4WD or boat giving your pet access to fresh water whenever they want.
The clever design stops spills from accidental kicks and reduces slobber by limiting the amount of water picked up at any one time.
RRP: $20.99 (Small) - $24.99 (Large) at www.dogculture.com.au
SUN PROTECTION & REPAIR
Your dog may gravitate towards the deck for a spot of sunbathing, but ultimately, they should be in a cool and shady spot to relax. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause sunburn and lead to heat exhaustion.
You can keep your beach-loving pooch cool and protected from harmful UV rays with an EzyDog Rashie.
The Rashie Shirt is crafted from the same material as the protective shirts originally worn by surfers. With a 50+ UV sun protection, it helps protect your dog from sunburn whilst still enjoying water fun.
It boasts highly visible red Lycra with a fitted design so your dog can ride the waves in style!
Fast drying, odour resistant and easy to wash, it comes in five sizes (from XS to XL).
RRP: from $34.95 at www.ezydog.com.au
SUN PROTECTION & REPAIR
Your dog may gravitate towards the deck for a spot of sunbathing, but ultimately, they should be in a cool and shady spot to relax. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause sunburn and lead to heat exhaustion.
You can keep your beach-loving pooch cool and protected from harmful UV rays with an EzyDog Rashie.
The Rashie Shirt is crafted from the same material as the protective shirts originally worn by surfers. With a 50+ UV sun protection, it helps protect your dog from sunburn whilst still enjoying water fun.
It boasts highly visible red Lycra with a fitted design so your dog can ride the waves in style!
Fast drying, odour resistant and easy to wash, it comes in five sizes (from XS to XL).
RRP: from $34.95 at www.ezydog.com.au
Unlike other pet sunscreen brands we looked at, Aniwell Filta Bac pet sunscreen is labelled as SPF 29-33 (blocking around 97% of UV radiation). It also functions as a second skin to protect injuries from bacteria, as well as the sun.
It allows wounds to breathe while healing, keeping in moisture and keeping out dirt. The formula is suitable for wounds, existing sunburn, and irritated skin as well as for use as a sunblock so it's a good all-rounder for the summer holidays!
RRP: $14.49 (120g); a 500g tub is also available at www.mypetwarehouse.com.au
In the hot summer months surfaces such as asphalt roads, concrete and play areas get very hot! You should avoid walking your dog in the heat of the day not to cause damage or discomfort to your dog’s paws.
Everyday wear and tear takes its toll. WashBar Paw Balm repairs and restores rough and dry skin on dog’s feet (and other places like their elbows) and helps prevent or relieve infection.
This moisturising ointment is made with Kanuka oil – a natural antiseptic & anti-inflammatory, and Copaiba oil – a natural anti-haemorrhagic that helps stop bleeding and weeping.
The combination of these oils blended with organic beeswax creates a balm which is ideal for paws which are dry or damaged through hot weather or from cuts or injuries.
RRP: $22.95. For details, visit www.washbar.nz or for a stockist near you, click here.
Doggles goggles for dogs are the first protective eyewear designed for dogs. They offer 100% UV protection, shatter-proof lenses, and anti-fog treatment on the inside of the lenses.
Doggles ILS (Interchangeable Lens System) are designed for dogs with a deeper lens cup, wider nose bridge, flexible frame and come with soft adjustable head and straps. You can change the lens colour anytime you want - for fashion or function.
On a really hot day, the best place for your dog to cool off is inside with you under the air conditioning! But if you can't, why not provide your pooch with an insulated dog house (in a shady spot) that is both large enough and well ventilated?
The Australian designed and made Kumfi Kennels provide a safe and comfortable environment for your pets to relax in when you're away. These hard-wearing kennels offer maximum protection from the elements but also minimise the noise from storms.
The kennels have an anti-bacterial coating and are 100%. recyclable. They can be custom-made to your requirements with a range of options (cooling fans etc.). Classic and Patio styles come in 4 colours and 5 sizes (Small to Extra Large).
RRP: from $605 at www.kumfikennels.com.au
SWIMMING & WATER SAFETY
If your dog is a water hog then a plastic clam shell (available from Bunnings or Kmart) is a great addition to the backyard. Remember to empty your pool when it's not in use as it can attract mosquitoes during the warmer weather. But if your dog likes to invite his friends over for a pool party, then maybe look at this next level up in dog pools!
This very funky 'One Dog One Bone' dog pool is not only chew and UV resistant, it will also remain cool in the summertime.
If you have a dog who loves using their claws to dig like mad in the water (usually around the corners?), the manufacturer promises this pool is very hard-wearing.
It holds up to 321 litres of water once filled to the top. Available in Blue, Pink, Sand, White.
RRP: $445.00 (pool only) at www.dogpools.com.au
The Skamper Ramp is a practical invention providing all animals with a way out of the water, even when nobody is around!
Great for emergency escape situations or for pets that just love to swim, the Skamper Ramp gives pet owners peace of mind in terms of water safety. It is made of strong, lightweight, blow-moulded polyethylene that is chemical and UV-resistant.
Great for emergency escape situations or for pets that just love to swim, the Skamper Ramp gives pet owners peace of mind in terms of water safety. It is made of strong, lightweight, blow-moulded polyethylene that is chemical and UV-resistant.
Please note you will need to train your dog to use the ramp to exit your pool or pond.
RRP: $139.95 at www.worldforpets.com.au (RSPCA Superstore)
The Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat is the ultimate in canine flotation and water safety.
For dogs that love to join their humans rafting, kayaking, boating, surfing and paddle boarding, this life jacket is designed for dogs of all shapes and sizes.
This premium life jacket includes details like a strong handle - optimally positioned to lift dogs out of the water - and reflective trim for enhanced visibility in or out of the water. Available in 3 sizes (S/M/L) and five colours.
For dogs that love to join their humans rafting, kayaking, boating, surfing and paddle boarding, this life jacket is designed for dogs of all shapes and sizes.
This premium life jacket includes details like a strong handle - optimally positioned to lift dogs out of the water - and reflective trim for enhanced visibility in or out of the water. Available in 3 sizes (S/M/L) and five colours.
RRP: $119.95 from www.dogculture.com.au
There are other products and methods out there that can further assist with cooling your dog down during summer and some work better than others! It really depends on your dogs and their specific needs.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS TO KEEP YOUR DOGS COOL
It's that time of year when our dogs ditch their favourite bed and would much prefer lying on the tiles on a hot day. However, if your dog needs additional support because of age or a medical condition, you could consider a cooling dog bed, which basically consists of a gel-like material or water to keep the bed feeling cool.
This TECHKEWL™ Phase Change Cooling Dog Coat is ideal for working dogs but also those that work, compete in dog sports or play in high heat conditions. These dog coats are already being used by police services, detection dogs, assistance dogs etc.
Designed to keep your dog cool and avoid heat stress during our long hot summers, the CoolPax™ Phase Change Cooling Inserts maintain a comfortable 14°C, providing 2 to 3 hours of cooling relief. It comes in 2 colours (Blue or Khaki) and 3 sizes.
RRP: from $135 at www.technicheanz.com
You can try to keep your pooch cool in the heat with this Chill Out Cooling Bandana by All For Paws. Simply soak the bandana in cool water and then put it on your dog - the lightweight design does not annoy your dog.
It is made from neoprene material, - similar to wetsuit fabric - and uses thermodynamics to take heat away from the body of your dog and dissipate it into the air, thus keeping them cool. The bandana is reusable over and over again. Available in 3 sizes.
RRP: from $13.49 at www.pethouse.com.au
With temperatures regularly hitting 40 degrees in summer, this Dog Ice Toy by Go Fresh Pet is like an ice cold popsicle but for your furry friend.
All you need to do is to remove the cap, fill it with water, freeze overnight and your pooch will be set for a summer filled with cold treats!
This cool dog product is available in assortment of refreshing colours - blue, pink and green.
RRP: $12.99 at www.petbarn.com.au and from Petbarn stores nationally.
Please keep in mind that these products are not a substitute to common sense which is to keep your dogs inside under the air conditioning or in the shade with plenty of water on extreme hot days. These products can only further assist in cooling your dogs down and the most important thing is that you keep a close eye on them!
Disclaimer: Please note that Australian Dog Lover does not necessarily endorse or recommend any of the commercial products listed in this article and they are listed for informational purposes only.
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