How To Keep Your Fur-Baby Cool In The S.W. MI Heat

The heat this summer so far has been oppressive, I can't imagine walking around in a fur coat.

The Michigan winter was brutal, but we had no idea what we were in for this summer. Spring went by without notice and suddenly we found ourselves in the mist of a heat wave. As humans we can take precautions to protect ourselves, here is some sound advice from the Red Cross...

• Drinking plenty
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
• Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.

But what about our pets? They don't have thumbs so they rely on us to keep them safe and healthy. Here is what rover.com is recommending...

• 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.

This may sound silly but my Mom gave me this advice, if the pavement is too hot for my bare feet, it's too hot for my dogs...she is not wrong. Now, I always check the pavement and walk on grass whenever possible. Take care of your pets during this heat wave and give them a kiss from me.