As the temperature starts to rise, it’s important to ensure that our pets are staying cool and comfortable during the summer months. This is especially true for breeds like the Irish Red and White Setter, who are known to have thick coats that can make them more susceptible to heat exhaustion. In this blog, we’ll share some hot weather hacks for your Irish Red and White Setter, including cool summer activities and refreshing treats.
Keep Your Setter Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for your Setter’s health and well-being, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh, clean water at all times. You can also add ice cubes to their water bowl to help keep the water cool and refreshing.
Invest in a Cooling Mat
Cooling mats are a great way to keep your Setter cool and comfortable during hot weather. These mats are designed to stay cool, even without refrigeration or electricity, and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Simply place the mat on the ground, and your Setter can lie down on it to stay cool and comfortable.
Take a Dip in the Pool
Swimming is a great way to beat the heat, and it’s also an excellent form of exercise for your Setter. If you have a pool, consider letting your dog take a dip. If not, you can also invest in a kiddie pool or even a sprinkler to help your Setter cool off and have some fun.
Make Some Frozen Treats
Just like humans, dogs love a cool treat on a hot day. You can make your frozen dog treats by filling a Kong toy with peanut butter or another dog-friendly filling and freezing it. You can also make frozen dog treats by blending plain yogurt, fresh fruit, and a little honey or maple syrup, and then freezing the mixture in ice cube trays.
Avoid the Hottest Times of the Day
It’s important to avoid the hottest times of day when the sun is at its peak, as this is when temperatures are at their highest. Instead, try to schedule your walks and outdoor activities for early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler outside.
Keep Your Setter Groomed
Grooming your Setter is important all year round, but it’s especially important during the summer months when their coat can make them feel hotter. Regular brushing will help remove any loose fur and prevent mats from forming, which can help keep your Setter cool and comfortable.
Offer Shaded Areas
When your Setter is outside, make sure they have access to shaded areas where they can rest and cool off. You can create shade by setting up a canopy, umbrella, or even a makeshift tent using a sheet or blanket.
Use a Cooling Vest
Cooling vests are designed to help regulate your dog’s body temperature and keep them cool during hot weather. These vests work by using evaporative cooling technology, which cools the dog’s body as water evaporates from the vest’s fabric.
Provide Plenty of Shade
In addition to providing shaded areas for your Setter to rest, it’s important to make sure that your yard has plenty of natural shade as well. You can do this by planting trees or installing a shade sail or pergola over your patio or outdoor seating area.
Create a Cool Room
If your home doesn’t have air conditioning or if you want to give your Setter a break from the heat, consider creating a cool room in your home. This could be a basement or a room with tile or concrete floors that are naturally cooler. You can also use fans or portable air conditioning units to keep the room comfortable.
Freeze Their Toys
Another way to help keep your Setter cool is to freeze their toys. You can freeze a Kong toy filled with peanut butter or other dog-friendly fillings or even freeze a damp washcloth for them to chew on.
Use a Misting System
A misting system is a great way to cool down your Setter and your outdoor living space. These systems release a fine mist of water that cools the air around your Setter and helps to regulate their body temperature.
Take Your Setter to the Beach
If you live near a beach or lake, taking your Setter for a swim can be a fun and refreshing way to cool off during the summer months. Just be sure to check that dogs are allowed and that the water is safe for swimming.
Avoid Hot Pavement
Hot pavement can burn your Setter’s paw pads and make them feel uncomfortable. If you must walk your Setter on the pavement during the hot summer months, try to do so during the cooler parts of the day, and consider using protective booties to keep their paws safe.
Make a DIY Cooling Bandana
If you’re feeling crafty, you can make your Setter a DIY cooling bandana. Simply soak a bandana in water, wring it out, and then put it in the freezer for a few hours. Once it’s frozen, you can tie it around your Setter’s neck to help keep them cool.
By following these hot weather hacks for your Irish Red and White Setter, you can help ensure that they stay cool and comfortable during the summer months. From providing plenty of shade to making frozen treats, there are many ways to help your Setter beat the heat and enjoy all the fun that summer has to offer. Just be sure to keep a close eye on your Setter’s behavior and health, and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns. With a little effort and some creativity, you can help keep your Setter happy, healthy, and cool all summer long!
