Tips for keeping cool through the dog days of summer

If you see the mercury rising, here are some tips to keep your canine cool:

• Offer an ice pack or wet towel to lay on.
• Add ice cubes to the water dish.
• Offer access to a wading pool with shallow, cool water.
• Offer access to cool shade by stringing up a tarp, cloth, or use a shade screen.
• Bring a collapsible water dish on your walks.
• Replace a portion of their regular diet with canned food.
• Avoid walking on hot pavement, and consider booties to insulate their toes.
• Early morning or evening playtimes, exercise, and walks are best.
• Give your dog some homemade frozen treats.