The best cooling vest for your dog is one that fits him or her properly!
These vests are superb in the simple way they work. You get them wet, and wring slightly and the vest absorbs the water into the inner layer. Using evaporation and heat reflection, your dog will be able to enjoy his walks or play time for longer. Cool water soak first, then place on your dog rather than spraying him with water. This way he will get the benefit of feeling cooler.
He will soon get used to the vest, and enjoy his play time. Older dogs have to be careful in the heat as do us older humans. I know I can't tolerate the heat the way I could when I was younger. So, be conscious of the time of day when the heat is the strongest and sun, which can be hard on your dogs eyes too. If you love to walk with bright sunlight or on the beach, consider doggy sunglasses to keep his eyes pain free.
The idea behind these products is to help your older dog enjoy life with you. Many of these aids don't require a huge investment and could make all the difference in how your dog enjoys the hot summer days.
As I researched different ways to make my old dog Sasha more comfortable, I realized there were many different products and ideas on the market. Up until now I mostly kept her in an air conditioned house, which can get boring to a dog that likes to go outside, but in the heat she would suffer.
Sasha couldn't understand when looking from the inside to the outside why she had to be inside on such a sunny day. So, finding different ways to keep your older dog or pets cool, can certainly help. Otherwise she would ask to go out into the fenced back yard, only to ask to come back in panting.
You Know Your Dog Best
You know your dog better than anyone, you know what he likes and doesn't like. If your dog hates getting wet, then a pool is not the right choice. If he loves to laze around, then a cooling mat might work the best. If he loves to really walk and hike and still run then a cooling vest would be a brilliant idea to help keep him cool.
None of these items are high tech, they simply aid your dog to enjoy time with you in the heat of summer.
Signs of Heatstroke in a Dog
It can happen very quickly. I know this with my old dog Sasha. We went for a walk, and it was cloudy, then all of a sudden it was hot and humid. I turned to head home and halfway there she started vomiting. There was a creek nearby so I led her there and she laid in the water and I sat with her. I phoned my daughter to let her know what happened. Always carry a cell phone on a walk!
Vomiting Heavy and rapid panting Thick sticky saliva weakness
If it is hot, and your dog shows these symptoms, you need to cool them down quickly. Get a wet towel and place over his neck and other cool towels under his armpits. This will help to cool his core temperature down. Let him drink cool water. If you are near a creak or water source, lead him to the water and coax him to lay down.
It can be hard to prepare for dog heat stroke, but keep in mind your dogs age before you take on any big hikes on a hot summers day. If you see he is forming sticky saliva at the corners of his mouth with fast panting, stop and let him drink. Always carry a water bottle for yourself and your dog. Doggy water bottles are portable and can attach to your belt or knapsack. Consider a dog cooling vest. KEEPING DOGS COOL