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Keeping your dog cool while travelling in hot weather is crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke. Here are some tips to help keep your dog cool:

Provide Adequate Water:

1. • Make sure your dog has access to fresh, cool water at all times. Check out our Air Bark’n’Bark travel water bottles that are great for making sure you always have fresh water with you on your dog walks or adventures.
   • If you have access to ice, consider adding cubes to your dogs water bowl to keep it cooler for longer.
   • An insulated bottle such as a Yeti can keep water cold for up to 3 days – I keep one for myself and one for my dog. They are excellent and keep water cold for up to 3 days – check them out here
   • https://au.yeti.com/collections/drink-bottles

 

Lucy drinking from one of our great Air Bark’n’Bark travel water bottles – (these are available for $28.00 inc postage – link coming soon)

1. Shade:

1. • Try to book a shaded site at a caravan park or campsite – be upfront and ask to be near a tree (but not directly under one)
   • Create shaded areas in your space where your dog can escape the direct sunlight.
   • If you’re outside, bring a portable shade (like a pop-up tent) for your dog to rest under.

1. Avoid Hot Surfaces:

1. • Hot pavement or sand can burn your dog’s paws. Walk your dog in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler
   • Test the pavement with your hand – if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Another test is to walk on it for 5 seconds barefoot – if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
   • Dog booties can protect their feet from hot surfaces (and other dangerous surfaces – glass, rocks and shells)

1. Cooling Mats or Beds:

1. • Purchase cooling mats or summer beds designed for dogs. These can be placed in your dog’s favorite resting spots

1. Wet Towels:

1. • Drape a damp towel over your dog or let them lie on it. The evaporating water will help cool them down.
   • You can also wet their paw pads and ears with cool water.

1. Frozen Treats:

1. • Freeze treats or make frozen dog-friendly snacks. You can use ice cubes trays with a bit of peanut butter or freeze a mix of water and low-sodium broth.
   • A licky mat in the freezer with yoghurt is a great treat and a good way to keep your dog cool.

1. Limit Exercise:

1. • Avoid vigorous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
   • If you do go for a walk, keep it short and bring water for both you and your dog, or
   • Go for a swim in the river or at the beach, but don’t linger in the sun too long, a quick dip and then some shade.

1. Grooming:

1. • Regular grooming can help keep your dog’s coat in good condition, which aids in temperature regulation.
   • However, some breeds have coats that act as insulation, so consult your vet or a professional groomer for advice.

1. Cooling Vests:

1. • Consider investing in a cooling vest for your dog. These vests use evaporative cooling or ice sheets (in the vest) to help lower your dog’s body temperature. They are relatively cheap and may be good for long haired dogs on hot days where you may not be able to access a cool space.
   • example of one type of cooling vest

1. Ventilation:

1. • Ensure good air circulation in your van or motorhome . If your dog stays indoors, make sure the environment is well-ventilated and air-conditioned if possible.

1. Monitor for Signs of Overheating:
   • Watch for signs of heatstroke, including excessive panting, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, drooling, weakness, or collapse. If you notice these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately.

 

1. • Remember that some dog breeds are more susceptible to heat than others, especially those with short noses (brachycephalic breeds) like Bulldogs and Pugs. Always tailor your approach to your dog’s specific needs and consult with your veterinarian for personalised advice.