How to cool pets in summer: Pet-owner approved purchases
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If you’ve been struggling during the UK heatwave, spare a thought for pets who are likely also finding the soaring temperatures difficult to cope with.
The RSPCA has plenty of recommendations for keeping our furry friends comfortable. Tips include ensuring they have plenty of shade and fluids, putting ice cubes in their water, wetting a towel with cold water and putting it down for them to lie on and letting them have a dip in your paddling pool.
Even giving your dog a good brush down can help because it'll remove excess hair.
There's also a wide variety of clever, pet-cooling products available to help keep your dog or cat cool, from sun beds with canopies to cooling vests, blankets and bandanas.
With temperatures set to soar even higher tomorrow, we've rounded up the top-rated products to keep your pets cool in the summer.
Shop the top-rated pet cooling products on Amazon
Pecute Dog Cooling Mat Large | from £13.99 to £42.99 depending on size
The Pecute Dog Cooling Mat works to absorb your pet's body heat and reduce their body temperature on a hot summer day. It's made from sturdy PVC, which is 0.4mm thick and filled with non-toxic gel. Not only is it waterproof, but it is also scratch resistant, so there will be no leakages. It's available in sizes XS to XXL. Customers said "brilliant product"; "very effective" and "so impressed".
ALL FOR PAWS Chill Out Ice Bandana | from £7.50 - £10.10 depending on size
This Ice Bandana has been praised by customers as a “brilliant”, "something that works" and claim it results in a "happy dog". It is a comfortable and non-toxic design, which is super simple to use. All you have to do is rinse it in cold water, store it in the fridge and then tie onto your pet to help them keep cool. If they start to overheat simply pour a bit more water onto the accessory, and repeat this step as necessary throughout the day.
UKCOCO Pet Cooling Vest Jacket | from £14.99 to £22.99 depending on size
UKCOCO Pet Cooling Vest works in a similar way to the Ice Bandana; simply pour water over the vest and wring it out before slipping it over your pet to keep their body temperature down. It is made from non-toxic material, has velcro fastening and is washable, so it is no wonder it has received glowing reviews from shoppers. Shoppers and their dogs love it, commenting things like "really does work"; "worth every penny!"; and "best thing ever!"
Pecute Paddling Pool for Pets & Kids | from £23.99 to £52.99 depending on size
Paddling pools are fun for all the family - including pets, if you get one that is scratch-proof. Like this design which is made from scratch-proof, non-toxic PVC material and is extremely durable as it has a 0.5cm thickened fibreboard built into the design. It also features a quick drain plug, as well as a case to store it away when the summer comes to an end. Plus it is available to buy in three sizes so nobody - furry or human - has to miss out on the fun. Any wonder comments range from "great fun" to "great pool" and "very happy".
Amazon Basics Elevated Portable Pet House | £41.46 to £67.46 depending on size/colour
The Elevated Portable Pet House is ideal to keep your pets cool and sheltered when the sun is out. It features a large front opening, a canopy roof with mesh panel and sturdy legs. Pooch owners give it the thumbs up, too, saying "great lightweight kennel"; "easy to assemble"; "dog loves it".
Jolitac Elevated Dog Cot Large with Removable Canopy | from £56.61 to £71.02
Jolitac Elevated Dog Cot is similar to the Portable Pet House. This design measures 36 inches in length, 30 inches in width, and can hold up to 100lb in weight, so it is perfect for any pet. It features an elevated lounger to allow air to flow freely and keep your pet off hard and hot surfaces, while the removable canopy will protect your furry friend from the sun’s rays. "Dog loves it" said one happy customer, while others said things like "wonderful" and "worth every penny".