The summer heat is here.  What can you do to keep your dog cool in this weather?  For some suggestions, I spoke with Mary Remer, a certified personal dog trainer, who has 30 years of experience in this field.

If you have the space for a baby pool, that is an excellent option for keeping your dog cool.  Dogs can be trained to enter the pool.  If a dog likes toys, you should begin by placing a toy in the empty pool.  Repeat the procedure, adding water incrementally, until  the dog comfortably goes into a water-filled pool.

Just like you, a dog will prefer a cool environment.  If you house has air conditioning, it should be kept at a reasonably cool temperature, even when you aren’t home, for the benefit of your pet.  Fans also will improve a dog’s comfort level.  However, if you won’t be home, you need to make sure that your dog is safe with the fan running.

However, caring for your dog during the heat of summer goes beyond keeping her healthy and cool.  As Mary noted, “It’s just about keeping dogs engaged in life, keeping them happy in their lives.”  Even though the temperatures are high and your dog needs to stay cool, he still needs stimulation.

Mary had excellent suggestions for keeping your dog engaged.  Try the following activities:

• Use the treadmill.  Train your dog to use the treadmill for a cool, indoor walk.
• Do canine calisthenics.  Have your dog jump onto an object and off.  Train your dog to bow.
• Teach signed games to your dog.  Hide her favorite toy or snack, and have her seek it.

Remember, the heat and humidity affect our beloved animal friends just like us.  Take the time to make sure your dog is comfortable and engaged.  Read Part I of this series to learn how to keep your dog healthy during the summer.

To learn more about Mary Remer, visit her website, What a Good Dog!