As the weather warms up and we get our first glimpses of summer, we won’t be the only ones running to find the sunniest spot in the garden.
And with heatwaves becoming more common due to global warming, many parts of the world are experiencing extreme heat on a regular basis.
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Our furry companions often love basking in the sunshine just as much as we do, but unfortunately, too much exposure to sun, heat and summer relat ed activities can be problematic.
To help you out veterinary surgeon Dr Linda Simon, from pet food experts Pooch & Mutt, has some top tips and expert advice on how you can keep your pooch as safe as possible this summer.
Here’s her advice.
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5. Keep your car cool
We all know the dangers of leaving a dog in a hot car, and ideally, we’d recommend you avoid doing it in the height of summer. However, if you must leave them for 15 minutes, make sure the car is kept cool by running the AC for a little while before you leave and opening the windows enough to allow some cooler air in. When travelling, it is also important to keep the car at a comfortable temperature for your pooch, so keep the AC running or lay a cool mat on the seat for your dog to lay on whilst you travel to your destination - of course, it goes without saying, this option should only be used if your dog is still able to be properly strapped in. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

6. Freeze their food
Freezing your dogs’ food is a great way to keep them both cool and occupied. Try stuffing your dog’s favourite meal or treats into a kong or spreading them onto a lick mat before popping them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can give it to your dog and watch their delight as they spend hours licking it, just like an ice lolly. Frozen bananas or carrots will go down a treat. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

7. Get them groomed before or as soon as the hot weather begins
Most dogs will shed all year round, but in the lead up to summer, shedding can increase to make way for a lighter summer coat. Often without a good brush or professional groom, the loose hair will sit on your dog's body, which will keep them feeling warm. As the weather heats up, getting your dog in for a good groom is a good way of removing all excess hair and will aid in keeping them cooler in the summer sun. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

8. Invest in the safety of your pooch
Cool mats or vests are a great investment, especially for those dogs that insist on laying out in the sun, pop them on one of these, and they can enjoy basking in the sun without overheating too quickly. Portable water bowls/bottles are another great investment, whether for your morning or evening walk or for those summer car journeys to the seaside. Keeping your dog hydrated is so important, so having a way of doing this with ease and on the go is a worthwhile investment. Photo: Canva/Getty Images