The heat of the summer can be tough on your doggo. As the mercury rises and the sun\’s rays belt down, some dogs have a harder time keeping themselves cool. New technology found in a dog cooling pad can make it easier for all our four-legged friends. Instead of your dog plopping down on your floor, they can have their own cooling pad to keep the sweltering temperatures at bay.
Keeping your dog cool during the summer is a simple process that is also very important. We at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique recommend keeping your dog inside when you\’re not home. This keeps them out of the hot temperatures in the comfort of air conditioning. If this is not an option, make sure your dog has access to shade and plenty of water while outside. Providing a cooling pad can also help your dog from overheating, which can lead to heat-related illnesses.
Nordic dogs with thick double coats are especially vulnerable to maladies caused from overheating (hyperthermia). Huskies, Australian Shepherds, and Pomeranian are just a few of the breeds of dogs that will benefit from a cooling pad. Many cooling pads significantly lessen the chance of heat stroke and hypertension. Also, dogs who have cushing\’s disease, arthritis, and skin conditions benefit from having a cooling pad against their skin.
This article will discuss the different types of cooling pads found on the market and which ones we think are the best for your dog.
Different Cooling Pad Designs
Depending on your budget and your dog\’s needs will affect what kind of cooling pad you will want to buy. There are cooling pads designed to go in a crate, outside, or as an addition to a dog bed.
Automatic Cooling Gel Pad
Most pet stores recommend this cooling pad design because it is the most effective and inexpensive option for your dog. An automatic cooling gel pad comes pre-filled with a cooling gel that is usually activated by pressure. When your dog lays on the pad, the pad will lower in temperature anywhere from 5-10 degrees lower than the outside temperature. Some brands will cool down even lower. Many automatic cooling gel pads will stay at this range for three to four hours before automatically recharging.
Water Filled Cooling Pad
These cooling pads are on the lower-tech side but are relatively cheap. Water filled cooling pads are good for temporary use when traveling with your dog. The design is simple. Just fill the pad with water and place it in the freezer or refrigerator. When the cooling pad reaches the desired temperature, place it out for your dog. The tricky thing about these cooling pads is finding the most suitable temperature for your dog. They will only stay cool for around 2 hours before you will need to place it back in the refrigerator.
Simple Gel Cooling Pad
This is probably the cheapest option for pet owners. The pre-filled gel remains at a constant temperature that is usually between five to ten degrees lower than the outside temperature. If you live in a climate that is not overwhelmingly hot, this might be the best option for your dog.
Our Top Five Favorite Options
Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique considered tons of cooling pads on the market and whittled the list down to our top five favorites. We considered price, effectiveness, and features to find the best cooling pads.
Pet Dog Self Cooling Mat Pad for Kennels by Arf Pets
Features:
- Automatic Recharging Cooling Relief for up to Three Hours
- Flexible Mat Design
- 100% Safe for Animals made with Non-Toxic & Latex Free Materials
- Durable Gel Construction
- Three Sizes
Price: $69.99–$104.99
Premium Pet Self Cooling Pad by The Green Shop Pet
Features:
- Pressure Activated Cooling System
- Cooling Relief for Up to 4 Hours
- Automatically Recharges After 15 Minutes of Non-Use
- Durable Gel Construction
- Five Sizes
Price: $19.98–$59.99
Cool Bed III by K&H Pet Products
Features:
- Water Saturated Cool Core Which Absorbs Pet\’s Heat
- Fill Once With No Tools Necessary
- Durable Construction from Nylon & Vinyl
- Recommended for Outdoor/Indoor Use
- Three Sizes
Price: $27.22–$49.99
Coleman Pet Cooling Mat by Coleman
Features:
- Maintained Five to Ten Degrees Less than Outside Temperature
- No Refrigeration Necessary
- 100% Non-Toxic
- Three Sizes
Price: $17.88–$25.99
Chillz Pad Comfort Cooling Gel Pad by Hugs Pet Products
Features:
- Rechargeable 100% Non-Toxic Gel Technology Absorbs Body Heat
- Recommended for Indoor/Outdoor Use
- Puncture Resistant Material
- Three Sizes
Price: $12.98–$29.98
More Cooling Options for the Summer
Living in a warm climate and having a dog with a thick coat is not always an ideal situation for their comfort and health. It is important to maintain a grooming schedule during the summer months to ensure coat length is optimal. We recommend having your groomer trim down a dog\’s belly fur so they have more skin contact with a cooling pad. Brushing is also especially important to keep a dog\’s shedding hairs from getting trapped in their coat.
Besides setting up a cooling pad for your dog, you might consider taking them for a swim. If you don\’t have access to a dog-friendly beach or lake, you can always get a paddling pool for your backyard. If your dog loves the water, they\’ll love a paddling pool! Your dog can splash around in fresh water, giving them a break from the heat. Backyard misting systems are also a fun option that supplies your dog with refreshing water.
Also in this vein are cooling vests that you can wrap around your dog\’s body. Many of these vests reflect solar radiation while evaporating, which draws heat away from a dog. Activating a cooling vest is as simple as soaking the vest in water, wringing the vest out, and placing it on your dog.
Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique urge you to be mindful of the scorching temperatures when it comes to your dog. Preventing overheating is as simple as making sure your dog has enough water, access to shade, and is inside when alone. Getting a cooling pad or any other cooling system can help your dog be their most comfortable this summer!
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