We are coming into the peak summer temperatures in Hampton Roads. It seems every time we step outside, we’re hit with a blast of muggy, uncomfortable heat. Now imagine being outside in near triple-digits with a full coat of fur. Dogs may love summer for the long days spent at the beach, the park, or the backyard playing, but it’s important for them to keep cool as well.

If you have an active dog who waits by the door to be let out into the sunshine, make sure they have access to water for regular hydration. Whether staying at home or on a short walk, keep some handy in order to ensure your dog doesn’t get sick. At Care-A-Lot Pet Supply, we provide many recommended hydration products perfect for the family on the go. The Kurgo Collapse-A-Bowl and Kurgo Splash Free Wander Bowl are great for road trips and day-long visits to the park or beach, while the Kurgo Gourd Water Bottle & Bowl and KONG H2O Stainless Steel Dog Water Bottle work great for hikes, neighborhood walks, and camping.

Be mindful, too, of other ways to help your dog beat the heat this year:

Exercise your dog early in the morning or late at night.

Early and after sunset are typically the coolest parts of a summer day, and as such are the best times for both you and your dog to exercise in comfort. If you are able, adjust your schedule to one or both of these periods.

Walking at dusk or later? Be seen! Try the Nite Ize Nite Dawg LED Collar Cover, the NiteHowl LED Safety Necklace, or the Nite Ize SpotLit LED Carabiner Light for you and your dog’s safety.

Let your dog check the weather.

Dogs may watch the Weather Channel with you, but they don’t understand it. Therefore, they won't know why the heat of the day is the wrong time for a walk. Nonetheless, you should allow your dog to step outside and determine if it is too hot, too wet, or too cold to go on a long walk. Your dog has good instincts, and they will understand when to shorten its walk, or simply come back inside where it's safe.

Wait until it’s cooler at night to play in the backyard. Dogs love the Chuckit! Max Glow Pro Launcher with Max Glow Ball and Nite Ize Flashflight Dog Discuit LED Fling Disc for the way they glow in the dark!

Never leave your dog in a parked car.

Even on a short trip to the store, your car retains more heat than an open area, regardless if you park in the shade. Plus, a dog may get overexcited in the car due to passersby or panic from claustrophobia, making dehydration more likely. On longer trips, make sure you have water for the dog and keep the AC running.

At home or on the road, the K&H Coolin’ Pet Pad and RC Pets Zephyr Cooling Vest bring added comfort to your pets.

Use hot weather as an excuse to swim more often!

The best activity you can do in summertime or hot weather is swimming. Instead of walking the dog, take your dog to the beach for a cool dip in the ocean, or get a kiddie-sized pool for them to splash around on hot days.

After the beach, treat your dog to a NaturVet Pooch Pop frozen treat. These are perfect to help boost your dog’s electrolytes.

When you want other fun ways to keep your dog cool in summer, Care-A-Lot Pet Supply is here to help. Visit any of our four locations in Hampton Roads and Moyock, or talk online with a customer service representative for recommendations on quality pet products.