COOL IN THE SUMMER

Summer and sunshine. What a great time for your dog! But heat and warmer weather can be a health hazard, so look to keep them cool.

• Walk your dog in the early morning or evening, when it’s cooler. Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots can also protect their paws against rough or hot surfaces.

• Keep up their supply of cool, fresh water. Use a Drinkwell Pet Fountain for a free-falling stream.

• Make sure your pooch has shade in the yard. Better yet, keep them indoors to enjoy your aircon.

• For a cool snack, ice blocks with beef or vegie stock are a treat!

• Throw a beach or pool pawty.

But remember, dogs aren’t naturalborn swimmers, so stay safety alert, from using a dog life-jacket to watching for strong ocean currents.

• Don’t have a pool yet? Visit dogpools.com.au and throw in a Zeus K9 Fitness Hydro floating dog toy for extra fun. •

Consider a hat from doggytopia. com.au or keep them cool on a puppy cooling mat from Fuzzyard.

• Talk to your vet about sunscreens to protect their skin. Try Dr Zoo’s Natural Zinc-free Sun Cream.

• Never leave dogs unattended in a car. They can die in six minutes! ■