With summer rapidly approaching, it’s that time of the year again. With rising temperatures and humidity levels, it is important to keep our dogs cool and hydrated.
Most of us, including myself, would often turn to social media for creative ways we can help our pups during the hotter months. And you might have even come across some videos on social media showcasing homemade dog treats to keep your dogs cool as well.
This company’s ingenious invention to keep your dog cool from the heat.
But are they safe for our dogs to consume?
That’s the question that was asked to Dr Linda Simon, a veterinary surgeon at Pooch and Mutt. And she has spotted some hidden dangers in those viral treats that you probably even weren’t aware of.
Frozen Dental Sticks
Both you and your dog might be big fans of dental sticks. After all, dental sticks help maintain your dog’s dental hygiene and your dog enjoys them. So you probably think it’s a good idea to freeze a dental stick in water to help cool them down, keep them occupied, and clean their teeth all at the same time.
And you’re right, it is certainly a good idea – killing three birds with one stone. However, you should avoid wrapping the icy treat in a lolly wrapper. According to Dr Linda, this is because objects like paper and cardboard can obstruct your dog’s bowel, which can be fatal if not treated quickly.
Giving your pet dental treats is one of the most common and easy ways to maintain your pet’s dental health.
Dr Linda recommends taking the frozen dental treats out of the packaging before giving it to your pet. However, if you decide to wrap it in a wrapper, make sure to supervise them so that they aren’t ingesting the wrapper.
What about other treats in ice?
Treats frozen in water can be an easy way to keep your dog cool, hydrated, and occupied. However, it is important to moderate the amount of treats you’re giving them to avoid overfeeding.
Overindulging your dog with treats will lead to weight gain. According to Dr Linda, weight gains can lead to a number of more serious issues, such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart problems. These problems can make your pup suffer and also reduce their lifespan.
Dr Linda recommends reducing your pet’s main meals by the amount you’re giving them in treats so that they’re still eating a balanced diet.
Frozen fruits
Giving your pup frozen fruits is a great way to keep them cool while also providing them with healthy nutrients. However, you should also consider what fruits your providing them.
You want to avoid fruits that are toxic to dogs, like grapes or citrus fruits. You should also avoid giving them fruits that are high in sugar content like mangoes or watermelon.
Try giving your dog frozen fruits to help them cool off this summer.
If your dog is still a puppy or small in stature, make sure to cut up the fruits into small pieces to avoid them choking on it. You should be even more cautious if you’re feeding them frozen fruits with either large seeds or pips as these can also become chocking hazards.
Make sure to avoid giving your dog grapes as they are toxic to dogs.
Fruity Ice Blocks
We all enjoy a nice, refreshing ice block on a hot, summer day so it’s only fair that our dogs get to enjoy them as well. While many fruits are fine for dogs, it’s important that you avoid fruits that are deadly for dogs, such as grapes and citrus fruits.
To find out more about other foods you should avoid giving to your dog, click here.
You should also stay away from fruits and fruity ice treats that are high in sugar as well to avoid weight gains for you dog.
Frozen treats can be a good way to help your dog cool off and stay hydrated during the hotter months.
If the frozen fruity treat you’re giving your dog has a stick in the middle, make sure you supervise them while they are eating to prevent them from ingesting the stick. And make sure to remove the stick as soon as they’re finished as it can be a choking hazard.
With the temperatures rising as we head into summer, hopefully our tips above can help keep your dog cool and hydrated this summer!
