We've moving into warmer weather, and keeping your dog cool during the hot spring or summer days can be difficult. Dog cooling pads are one of the easiest ways to ensure your pooch doesn't overheat indoors or outdoors. Whether you choose a cooling pad, mat or bed is not that important since all of them work on the same principles.
But how does a cooling dog pad actually work?
There are a few different types of cooling pads/mats that use different technologies to keep your pooch cool in hot weather. Some of these pads and mats are powered by electricity, while others use either water or gel to keep the dog cool for several hours.
Both water and gel-based cooling pads work by absorbing the excessive body heat and then dissipating it into the air. They don’t really feel cold or even cool when you touch them, but they are cooler than your dog’s body, which is enough.
The gel that you can find in many of these cooling pads is water-based with a polymer. Some of the pads are pressure-activated, which means that the gel is activated only when there is pressure and when there isn’t any pressure, the gel is able to recharge. Other pads are phase-activated, which means that they stay activated at certain temperatures.
The water-based dog cooling pads get filled with water that to keep the pet cool for a certain amount of time. However, the disadvantage of these pads is that they often leak or spill. They are not a good choice for dogs that are avid chewers. Whatever pad, bed or mat you choose, read the manual carefully and follow the instructions for use.
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When Does Your Dog Need a Cooling Pad?
A dog cooling pad is often necessary during the summer when temperatures rise to dangerous levels and your dog struggles to stay cool. You can notice when your pup is uncomfortable due to heat if he is constantly looking for the cool spots in your house, especially bathroom or kitchen tiles. Also, pay attention to other signs of overheating, like drooling and excessive panting, increased heart rate, lack of energy or breathing problems.
Overheating in dogs can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration, which can all be dangerous for your pooch. Use a cooling pad to help your dog stay safe in the summer both indoors and outdoors. Alternatively, or in combination with cooling pads, you can also use cooling vests and collars. Remember to always provide shade for your dog, as well as fresh drinking water to keep him hydrated.
How to Choose a Good Dog Cooling Pad?
To buy the best cooling pad for your dog, pay attention to these things:
Size – Choose a cooling pad for dogs that will fit your individual pooch. If you choose a pad that is too small, your dog won’t get cool enough. Also, a pad too big can be less efficient. You also need to consider the place where you plan to put the pad. Will you put it in a kennel or a crate? If that’s the case, make sure that the pad has the right dimensions.
Durability – Durability is important unless you want to buy a new pad every month. Also, it is especially important to get the most durable pad if you plan to use it outside. Choose a pad made of a sturdy material which can sustain your dog’s scratching, biting, chewing, etc.
Portability – Choose the pad that will suit your specific needs. If you plan to keep it in one place, water-filled beds or pads can be a good choice. However, they are not a good choice if you plan to move them a lot since they are usually very heavy. Choose a lightweight and portable pad if you plan to move it often or travel with it.
Comfort and safety – Your dog should be comfortable on the pad you choose, or else he might not use it at all. Also, choose materials that are safe and non-toxic to dogs, like nylon. Avoid plastic, rubber or latex since they are not as breathable as nylon.
Easy to use and maintain – Choose a pad that is easy to use and clean. Go with pads that can be cleaned with a damp cloth and those that don’t allow dirt or dog’s hair to stick to them easily.
It is important to provide our dogs with shade and water in the summer and relief from heat and UV rays. A cooling pad can be very helpful but if your home is hot and sunny, or your pup spends a lot of time outdoors in summer, the pad alone is not enough to keep your dog cool and safe. Encouraging your pup to spend more time in a home with AC or providing a dog pool in a shade can be a good idea.
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