Dog Days of Summer

Here in Austin, Texas, it's already heating up and Maple, being the fire demon that she is, runs hot already. Texas waterways, as well as some other states, are dealing with toxic algae blooms that are fatal to dogs that are ingesting the affected water. To avoid any tragedies, we're bypassing most of the water sources nearby which left me short on ways to help Maple chill out. Here are a few ideas on how to keep your pup cool in rising summer temps.

Cooling Vest (....or shirt, bandana, OR a free AF towel from the closet)

There are many options out there ranging from life vests, muscle tanks, bandanas, etc out there for purchase. Our local pet store, Tomlinson's, has some with incredibly cute summer patterns. If you're in a pinch or just conserving bones right now, a good old fashioned hand or body towel from the closet will do just fine.

How to:

• Wet shirt/towel/bandana/whatevs with water

• Toss in fridge or freezer for a bit

• Roll up cold shirt/towel/bandana situation and stick it in a spare Yeti/Hydro Flask Water bottle or an insulated bag (add icepack if you're going for a long adventure)

• Enjoy your hike or other activity!

• Come back HOT and check temp of towel etc. on your inner wrist to ensure it is not too cold before putting it on your dog. If using the towel trick, you can wrap it around your dogs collar line or lay it on their belly.

• Here is our favorite patterned tank!

Cooling Mat

This product is pretty neat because it is pressure activated and doesn't require any prep. We haven't tried this one out yet but the reviews seem pretty solid.

Puppy Pool

There are a range of products out there. I'm linking one here that honestly just had a cute Frenchie in the photo, so it won. We like it because it's foldable and has a drain unlike it's old hard plastic counterparts. The other option I've been toying with is a stock tank dog pool. They're all the craze for humans right now in Austin so why not share with the dogs too! There are options galore in terms of material, shape, size and budget. If I head down this path, I'll do a DIY on how to choose the right size and install your own drain and possibly how-to repurpose it into a garden bed if she hates it :).

Frozen Enrichment Bowls

These are Maple's favorite thing when the humans of the house need to keep her busy. You can throw them together with just about any random dog-safe edibles, add some water, and freeze! Check out our Instagram page for our PB-Banana-Yogurt Bowl reel. These are a great calming and cooling treat for your dog to enjoy. If you need something fast, most dogs love a good ice cube chase and crunch as well.

If none of these work out...ya know, just hook up a sprinkler and go dance around in the mud.

While in general, these are all safe at-home activities, we do recommend checking with your vet before trying anything new to ensure it is safe for your pet.

Share your experience and don't forget to tag us @barkingevergreen and use #barkingevergreen for a chance to be featured on our page.