A pet expert has issued urgent advice to dog owners on how to keep their animals safe and cool during high temperatures.
As the UK braces for a mini heatwave, global pet brand PetSafe has advised owners how to keep their dogs at safe temperatures.
Despite some conflicting opinions on the topic, PetSafe’s Rob Steele said owners can give pets ice cubes as a way to keep them cool.
He said: “While they may not be the quickest way to keep our pups cool in the heat, they will certainly be a delicious and refreshing treat.”
He added that it’s important for owners to make sure they keep an eye on their dogs while they lick and chew ice and make sure they give them cubes that are the right size for the dog.
Archive image. A pet expert has issued urgent advice to dog owners on how to keep their animals safe and cool during high temperatures.
“Do not give your bijou breed a large ice cube as it can pose a choking risk,” he urged.
For smaller puppies, “it’s best to give smaller cubes or even ice chips; this is also helpful for dogs who eat quickly.”
To make ice cubes even more attractive, aromas can be added to stimulate them.
Rob suggested “some peanut butter, salmon, lean chicken, or pet-safe tuna in the ice cube tray, along with the water.”
An even more ingenious way to give puppies some ice water is to use a free toy, which will have the added benefit of keeping them mentally stimulated, which can be a useful distraction in the heat.
“They can also be filled with wet food, before freezing, to enjoy slow feeding on a warm, sunny day.”
‘And another way to quell your pup’s boredom and reduce any heat discomfort is to fill a container with some low-sodium beef broth sprinkled with some treats and then freeze it to make an ice lick.
“Frozen carrots and apple slices also provide a tasty, healthy and refreshing snack – just remove the seeds and core.”
PetSafe’s Rob Steele reminded owners to make sure they always have a bowl of water in a visible and accessible location so dogs can dip into it when they need to.
Rob reminded owners to make sure they always have a bowl of water in a visible and accessible place so dogs can dip into it when they need to.
“Adding ice cubes is a great way to keep water cold and encourage drinking.”
Four-legged dogs may also be tempted to drink more water using a pet water fountain, thanks to its bubbly flow.
This will help the puppies stay hydrated so they don’t overheat in the high temperatures.
Another way to help dogs cool down, especially if they are not tempted by cold food or delicious frozen treats, is to lay them down on a cold, wet towel.
You can also use a gentle spray bottle from time to time to keep them cold.
“But take it slow and careful; try the first few squirts away from him to gauge his reaction, as some dogs can get scared.”
“But almost everyone would love to have a paddling pool to splash around in and stay cool.”
For more information visit Safe pets