The Jinx HQ is located in sunny Los Angeles, where warm weather can start in May and last well through October. On extra hot days, it’s always a good idea to offer multiple options for cooling down like cold treats, water during play, or simply some nice AC. We’ve rounded up three playful ways to keep your dog cool and comfortable through the rest of the season. Your pup will thank you.
First things first, stay alert
Since dogs can’t tell us when they are overheating, it’s important to proactively keep your pup cool in hot weather and to be aware of signs of heat exhaustion. Signs of heat stroke in canines are very similar to those observed in humans, although dogs pant more in an effort to cool themselves down. Watch out for the warning signs below.
- Heavy panting
- Hypersalivation or drooling
- Warm skin to the touch
- Red mucous membranes of mouth
- Rapid heart rate
- Extremely dry nose
- Quiet or poorly responsive
- Vomiting or spitting up
- Blood in mouth or stool
- Mild to severe seizures
- Muscle tremors
- Ataxia or staggering
The best way to prevent heat stroke in your pup is to make sure they are in a safe area with access to someplace cool and out of the sun. Never leave your dog in a hot car or confined in an area in direct sunlight, even for a few minutes. Now that you know what warning signs to watch out for, let’s jump into the summer fun.
1. Add water to their play
If you have an outdoor space available, a splash pad made for kids can be a great option for your dog. Let the sprinklers work their magic while your pups splash around. A hot, tired pup will likely enjoy laying down on the splash pad. Just be sure to always supervise your furry friend during water play.
2. DIY yogurt pupsicles
What’s better on a hot day than a cold ice cream? Ice cream has a high sugar content that makes it a no-no for pups, but homemade frozen yogurt is a nutritious alternative. Check out this safe and delicious recipe to treat your pup to a refreshing pupsicle. Feeling extra fancy? Use our freeze-dried meal toppers as savory, protein-rich 'sprinkles'.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups plain or non-fat greek yogurt)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 ripe mashed banana
- Your favorite Jinx treats
- Melt peanut butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
- Place all of the ingredients into a blender, mixer, or food processor and mix until smooth.
- Pour into ice cube trays or popsicle trays.
- Drop in your favorite Jinx treat for a fun surprise once the yogurt melts away.
- Freeze until firm.
- Pop out of the tray with a butter knife.
- Get out your camera and let your dog enjoy this frozen snack.
3. Plan your exercise
During hot spells, be careful to plan walks early in the morning or later in the evening. On very warm days, the pavement may be too hot for your dog’s paws so it’s worth checking the tarmac before you head out for a walk. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. If the pavement is too hot, opt for a grassy walk or wait for cooler temps.
Make sure your pup takes regular breaks while playing or exercising. This includes swimming, particularly if your dog doesn’t venture into the water regularly. Swimming in a safe place can help cool your pup but overdoing it can cause exhaustion, low blood sugar, and ‘swimmer’s tail’ where the tail can become painful or immobile.
We hope you and your pup safely enjoy every drop of sunshine together.