Six Gadgets for Keeping a Dog Cooler in Hot Weather

If you're a dog owner it's natural to want to spend time outside with your pets when the weather turns warm. Other dogs spend there entire lives as outside dogs. There are a few neat gadgets that help keep a dog cool during hot weather. None are very expensive and all are worth the investment.

Cooling Vest

Used by professional working dogs around the world the cooling vest is perfect for hiking, camping and doing work exercises in hot weather. The vest wraps around the dogs chest like a harness with a pad under the chest that is either soaked in cold water first or holds a cooled gel pack. The cooling vest keeps the dog's chest and core cool.

Collapsible Water Bowl

A must for every hiker, jogger and biker who takes their dog with them during hot weather. Every time you stop for a drink, or you notice the dog's tongue hanging far out of its mouth, give him a drink in his own collapsible dog bowl. These fold down so tiny they are easy to carry and weigh only an ounce or two.

Kennel Canopy

Dogs that live in an outside kennel must have access to a shaded area. A kennel canopy is basically a reflective tarp that is tied across the top of an outside dog kennel to provide shelter from the elements. You can also take the canopy along on hikes and tie it to trees to give you and your pet some shade.

Reflective Crate Cover

A reflective crate cover is necessary for dogs that are kept in a crate outside for any period of time in hot weather. The cover attaches easily to the outside of the crate and reflects the hot sun rays away.

Elevated Cot

Give your pet a cooler place to sleep while outside on an elevated cot. The concrete gets too hot to rest on hot days, even if out of the sun. A well made elevated cot gives your dog a place to sit or rest that's comfortable.

Pet Cooling Mat

A pet cooling mat is perfect for older dogs, or dogs that are prone to overheating. The mat plugs in and immediately cools the pet's chest area, helping to lower their core temperature.

If your dog shows signs of heat exhaustion call your veterinarian immediately. Schedule short periods of work and bring along a cooling gadget for your dog to use in between.