Cool Tips for Keeping your pet comfortable in the Texas Summer heat

Hey Setx pet parents!

Summertime in Southeast Texas can be a blast, but the heat can be tough on our pets. I know the heat hasn’t quite hit us yet, but it’s right around the corner. As we soak up the sun, it's important to keep our pets cool and comfy. Here are some tips to help your pets beat the heat (and hey, they're great for us too!):

1. Fresh Water, Always!

Make sure your pets have access to fresh, cool water at all times. Keep those water bowls filled and consider adding ice cubes for an extra chill. Also, check out the Kalimdor Dog Water Bottle, a leak-proof portable puppy water dispenser with a drinking feeder for outdoor walking, hiking, and travel. It's made of food-grade plastic and holds 19oz. I spotted something similar for a great price at Pop Shelf—my home away from home!

2. Create a Shady Spot

Set up a cool, shaded area where your pets can relax and escape the sun. Whether it's under a tree or with a sunshade, a shady spot can make all the difference.

3. Cool Treats

Freeze some pet-safe treats or make DIY pupsicles. Not only will your pets love the tasty treat, but it'll also help cool them down. Plus, I plan to make some cool treats available for purchase this summer—stay tuned!

4. Limit Exercise

Exercise is important, but during the hottest parts of the day, it's best to keep activities light. Opt for early morning or late evening walks when the temperatures are cooler. A stroll around the Beaumont Botanical Gardens or a visit to Tyrrell Park can be perfect during these times.

5. Water Fun

Set up a kiddie pool or a sprinkler. Most dogs love playing in the water, and it's a great way to help them stay cool. If you're near the Neches River, a quick dip can be refreshing too! Other great spots include Village Creek and Lake Livingston, where your pets can enjoy a swim. Just remember, always keep an eye out for alligators and snakes. Safety first! I am absolutely ready to be in the water finally —my family always calls me a mermaid!

6. Grooming

Keep your pet’s coat well-groomed. For dogs with thick fur, a trim can help them feel cooler but be careful not to shave too close to the skin.

7. Cooling Mats and Bandanas

Invest in cooling mats or bandanas that you can wet and place on your pets. These handy items can help regulate their body temperature.

8. Watch for Signs of Overheating

Be mindful of signs like excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. If you notice any of these, it's time to bring your pet indoors to cool down immediately.

Keeping our pets cool and comfy in the summer is a top priority. And remember, these tips are great for us humans too—we all need to stay cool in this Setx heat. If you have any tips of your own, feel free to share them in the comments. Let's make this summer so much fun!

Keep it cool, y'all!