HOT DOGGIES!

One of my most favorite things to see while walking around downtown Savannah on any given afternoon is  this:

And this:

 And even this:

(the longest tongue I've ever seen)

However adorable as these guys are, I know they're just very hot and just trying to find some relief from the Savannah sun. John and I understood that moving to Savannah meant we had to prepare ourselves for heat the likes of which we had never seen -- this includes DC where it gets plenty hot. And just as important as making sure we stay cool is making sure that ol' Freckle Tongue himself can find some relief. 

Check out that freckle tongue!

Over the past several months we have become quite adept at making sure that no pack member overheats. I share with you now the best methods for keeping pooches cool in the hot summer sun:

#1. Make sure they have plenty of water

We use the Outward Hound line of portable water dishes and we are very pleased with them. They fold up nicely to fit in your short's pocket and the material is sturdy and strong. Barksdale tested, Barksdale approved.

#2. Make sure they stay inside most of the day

This should go without saying, but if it's too hot for you to be outside, then it's too hot for your dog to be outside. I can't tell you how often we hear dogs barking in their backyards in the middle of the hot afternoon and it drives us mad!

#3. Take them into the water whenever possible

As I've mentioned in my previous posts, Hilton Head is a great spot to take your doggie for a dip to cool down. (Just remember that they aren't allowed on the beaches after 9am or before 5pm). Not only is swimming a great way for your dog to stay cool, it's also one the more adorable things to watch. Need proof?

#4. Don't be afraid to spray them down

When John and I moved down here, one of our first purchases was a spray water bottle that we use to spritz  water all over the wolf when we go for walks. He seems to like it (after he realizes that it isn't going to hurt him), and I can't pretend that I don't enjoy "missing" BD and hitting John instead once in a while. ;)

I've also recently discovered the Canine Cooler, although I haven't tried it yet. It seems like you basically fill a specially designed bed with cold water and let your pup lie on it whenever he gets hot. Seems like a good idea, but they aren't cheap. Has anyone tried this product before? Would you recommend it?

Just remember: whatever you do this summer, stay cool out there. After all, they aren't called the Dog Days of Summer for nothing!