Just like many of us Irish dogs are just not used to hot weather. Those dogs that suffer most from heat related problems are those with very long fluffy coats, especially dogs like Huskies and Samoyeds which are designed to live in snow!

Here are some practical easy tips to keeping your dog cool this summer:

1. NEVER leave your dog unattended in a hot car especially after a walk when they are already exhaused. consider investing in a non-spill water bowl for the car and leave windows open or air-con on when traveling with your dog.

2. Ensure your dog has a nice shady spot to relax in the garden, you can always improvise and build a little sun shield in the shadiest corner.

3. A childrens paddling pool is a good idea for hot days; just a few inches of water so your can dog can cool down when you are out!

4. Ensure there is adequate water to last all day long if your dog is home alone, for example a bucket of water for larger dogs instead of just a bowl. If outside make sure water is kept in the shade.

5. Try to avoid walking/exercising during the hottest parts of the day, it is much safer and more pleasant to walk early in the morning or later at night. Also remember dogs don’t wear shoes so can burn their feet easily on hot paths.

6. If your dog has a very long dense coat consider getting it clipped for the summer months; a simple haircut can be a great relief!

7. If your dog is mainly white in colour or has white ears and a  white snout beware of sunburn. White hair and skin burns very easily. consider applying a high factor childrens sunblock to these areas.

Just remember that if you are feeling hot your pet probably is feeling the heat 10 times as much ! So keep cool, drink plenty and enjoy the summer!