Summer is upon us, and our furry friends will be spending a lot of time outdoors. Just like humans, dogs need to stay cool and hydrated.  Here are five tips to keep your dog from overheating.

• Ice- You can give your dog an ice pack or wet towel to sit on when they get tired. This will feel refreshing and keep them playing longer. In their water bowl, add a few ice cubes to make the water colder.
• A collapsible water dish- Collapsible water dishes are a great invention to provide some relief without lugging a big plastic bowl outside. These fit easily in a backpack and weigh practically nothing. It’s like having a personal water bottle for your pet! Whether you are going on a hike, a long walk in the park or having a day of play, this is a simple and easy fix to keeping your pet hydrated.
• Wake up early- The sun beats down much harder in the middle of the day making it hotter at the park or on a walk. Take your dog for an early morning jog or time spent at the dog park. Not only is it cooler for your pet, it is cooler for you too.
• Create shade- Bring a small tarp or cloth to create a shady area for your pet. If there aren’t trees around, you have to get creative in providing relief for your dog. A simple makeshift recovery area will create a more comfortable environment.
• Walk on grass not pavement- Have you ever touched hot pavement with your bare feet? It can burn them in a matter of seconds. Your dog’s paws are sensitive too, so next time you walk them on the hot pavement think about whether or not you would walk barefoot. If it is too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Consider buying booties to alleviate this stress.