We humans like to be cool in the summer -- and our four-legged friends are no different. Making a cool area for your dog in your yard doesn't have to cost a lot and takes little time while ensuring your pet is comfortable in high temperatures and humidity. In addition to providing him an area to cool off, make sure he always has plenty of fresh water to drink.
Shady Area
Create a shady area in your yard on the grass for your pet to escape the sun on long summer days. A doghouse is not the coolest place in your yard, it provides shade, but with no air circulation and can hold more heat. Decide on an area that does not have asphalt, or sand, which hold heat. Choose a corner in the fence and tie a tarp it. Add a pole or long stake to the other two corners of the tarp and attach it to make a makeshift, shady tent for your pooch. You also can install a shade sail between trees to provide a cool area out of the sun.
Swimming Pool
Place a children's swimming pool or one designed for pets in the yard, preferably near the shady area or under it, and fill it with water. Your dog can sit in the pool to cool off his perspiring, fuzzy paws and body. If you have a small dog, fill the pool with just a few inches of water so he can lie in it comfortably. Do not leave your dog unattended in the pool.
Misting Systems
A patio misting system or an outdoor misting fan cools a shady area considerably. Both systems attach to a standard garden hose and have misting fittings that emit a fine, cool mist, which evaporates into the air without leaving your pet wet.
Cooling Vests
Dogs do not perspire as humans do. A canine cooling vest creates artificial perspiration for your friend to relieve himself of excessive heat and panting to maintain his normal body temperature. Excessive panting can lead to a distressed pet during hot, summer days.
Breed Specific Warnings
Keep brachycephalic, flat-faced dog breeds indoors as much as possible warns PetMD. Breeds such as the Boston terrier, Japanese chin, Pekingese and pugs with short noses do not pant as well as other breeds and are at a higher risk of heat stroke. Elderly, overweight pets or any who have lung or heart disease should stay inside where there is air conditioning during the summer when possible.
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Writer Bio
Mary Lougee has been writing for over 10 years. She holds a Bachelor's Degree with a major in Management and a double minor in accounting and computer science. She loves writing about careers for busy families as well as family oriented planning, meals and activities for all ages.