Top Tips for a Cool Dog This Summer from Benny The Dog

Always have fresh, cool water available at all times. Keep the water bowl in the shade and remember to carry a water bottle on walks.

Even when left for only a few minutes can cause brain damage or death. A car retains heat, even in the shade. Locked inside a car a dog can't cool down through panting because the air is too warm. An open window is not sufficient to keep a car cool enough.

Ensure there is a shady area for your dog to retreat to. The temperature in the shade is considerably cooler than sitting under the sun.

Look out for early warning signs; excessive panting and drooling, a rapid heart rate, bright red tongue, very red gums or dizziness. In severe cases there could be; shock, coma, convulsions and loss of consciousness.

Early morning or late evening, walking in the cooler parts of the day is more comfortable for both dog and owner.  Reduce exercise intensity on hotter days.

For water loving dogs swimming is one of the best forms of exercise in hot weather. Include water fetch toys to safely increase enjoyment for both dog and owner.

For longer walks or days out consider using a dog cooling jacket. This provides evaporative cooling, exchanging the dog's heat for the cool water stored in the jacket.

These specialist dog beds use cooling gel technology to create a lower temperature than your dog.

Specially designed freezing toys can provide a satisfying treat to cool dogs on hot days.

As heat rises from the ground, concrete or tarmac surfaces can become hot. Dogs both absorb and release heat through their paws. Boots help to isolate the heat and offer protection from hot pavements.

Benny The Dog is a Leicestershire based pet store and community, supplying high quality dog toys, collars, leads, clothing, food, health and grooming products and many more items. They try out and test their products to find the best quality, hardest wearing products for their customers. For more information visit: http://www.bennythedog.co.uk. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bennythedoguk. Twitter: @bennythedoguk. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bennythedoguk.