Community Corner

How to Keep Dogs Cool on a Hot Day

Today is a scorcher, that's for sure!

Melinda Mangiafico of Natural Pet Market in Woodbury shared tips for keeping your dog cool when the weather is anything but.

1.) Make sure the dog has plenty of fresh water, of course.

2.) Some people recommend shaving down dog's fur coats in the summer.

Mangiafico said she doesn't recommend that because a dog's fur acts as insulation and actually protects him or her from the heat.

"I don't get rid of the insulation in my house in the summer," she said.

3.) If your dog is overheating, cool them down by dipping their footpads in water.

Your dog will pant if overheated, but Mangiafico said if the dog's tongue begins to resemble the shape of a ladle, they are in distress.

4.) Drinking too much water too quickly can cause your dog to vomit, Mangiafico said. She recommends giving your dog ice cubes.

5.) When it comes to walking your dog, be sure to walk them in the morning, before the temperature rises, or at or after dusk.

6.) Mangiafico said she also puts out a kiddie pool out for her 2-year-old German Shepherd and 9-year-old black lab.

7.) Of course, never leave your dog in a car on a hot day.

How do you keep your pets happy on a hot day?


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