PSA: Pets Feel The Heat, Too! Here's How To Cool Off Your Pet This Summer

When you're trying to keep cool on a hot summer day, don't forget your pets. Because they can't tell us, sometimes it's hard to know if your dog or cat is overheated, something that can be dangerous for pets and humans alike. 

There are tons of relatively simple ways to make sure your fur baby stays safe this season, and these Redditors have some great ideas. While most of these tips are aimed at dogs, we know that cats, bunnies, birds, and other pets need to be kept cool; this info can apply to them as well. 

Redditors suggest shifting your dog's walk times to very early or late to beat the midday heat. Make daytime bathroom breaks short — under 15 minutes — and beware of hot pavement, which can burn a dog's paws in minutes. A general rule of thumb: If you touch your hand to the pavement and you can't hold it there for a couple minutes, it's too hot for your dog to walk on.

Whether you grab a kiddie pool or decide to buy one just for dogs, offering a place for doggos to splash and cool off is a summertime must. It's also adorable to watch.

Multiple Redditors say they turn fans on for their pups, a cheap and efficient way to cool down. Most smart dogs will simply spend their days laying in front of one, perfectly content.

Redditors suggest focusing on mental stimulation when getting physical exercise is just too dangerous in the heat. Kongs, snuffle mats, and treat puzzles can all keep pups busy.

One Redditor makes dog ice pops with bone broth and frozen veggies that they keep in small trays, ready to go. Other commenters mention everything from soaking and freezing rope toys to offering frozen carrots or berries.

Related: Easy, Cheap Dog Treats You Can Make at Home

If you're in a crazy hot climate and lack AC, a cooling vest or mat may be useful for your pup. This one actually recharges itself to stay cold thanks to a self-cooling gel. This microfiber vest needs to be wetted before it's worn. 

Related: 13 Cheap Pets That Are Easy to Take Care Of

Another commenter suggests setting up sails or a tarp with bark chips underneath as a spot for a pup to cool down under. You could also buy this SolarTec Pet Cot from Costco, which shades from the sun as well as keeps your dog elevated off the hot ground. 

Related: Best Pet Supplies to Buy at Costco

A Redditor says there's a local brewery near them where dogs can come inside with their owners. Though restaurants that allow such a thing can be few and far between, many malls also permit dogs to come in for walks. Or you can visit dog-friendly stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Petco with your furry friend.

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