The Dog Days Survival Guide

SUMMER IS COMING! 

For dog parents, the “dog days of summer” mean making a few
adjustments to keep our furry friends safe and happy. Here is your
ultimate guide to staying cool, healthy, and entertained during the
hazy, hot, humid months ahead.

DIY “Pup-sicle” Recipes

Keeping your dog cool is the top priority. These frozen treats are
easy to make using a standard ice cube tray or popsicle mold.

Berry Yogurt Bliss: Fill molds with plain Greek yogurt and top with
fresh blueberries or strawberries.
Tropical Swirl: Blend pineapple and watermelon separately. Pour a
little of each into the mold to create a fun, colorful swirl.
PB & Banana: Blend plain yogurt, unsweetened peanut butter (check for
no Xylitol!), and ripe bananas.
Sweet Pumpkin: Mix pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling!) with a dash
of honey or peanut butter.
Savory Protein Pops: Fill molds with low-sodium chicken broth and drop
in small pieces of cooked chicken, turkey, or your dog’s favorite
crunchy treats.

 Essential Summer Safety Tips

Prioritize Hydration: Always provide plenty of cool water. If you’re
heading out, pack a Portable Dog Water Bottle and a collapsible bowl.
Take “Cool Down” Breaks: Limit outdoor intensity. Find shade
frequently and let your dog’s heart rate settle before resuming play.
Time Your Walks: Stick to early mornings or late evenings when the
pavement is cool and the sun is less intense.
Make a Splash: Use a sprinkler or a kiddie pool to cool off—it’s great
for exercise and adorable photo ops!
Know the Warning Signs: Contact a vet immediately if you notice signs
of heat stroke: excessive panting, dry or bright red gums, lethargy,
drooling, vomiting, or an inability to move.

Summer Enrichment: Indoors & Out – The Great Outdoors

Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Perfect for water-loving pups! Pro Tip:
Practice on the grass first so they get used to the movement. Always
use a Dog Life Jacket for safety.
Hiking & Camping: Research trails with lakes or streams so your dog
can wade in and cool their paws along the way.

Indoor Fun (For those “too hot” days)

Living Room Obstacle Course: Use cushions, chairs, and boxes to create
a DIY agility course that challenges their brain and body.
Tug of War: A great way to burn energy in a small space. For extra
fun, try a “flirt pole” to let them practice their natural chasing
instincts.
Crate Hide-and-Seek: Hide high-value treats inside their crate or
around the house to encourage them to use their nose to “hunt” for
dinner.

Sun’s out, tongues out! Enjoy the heat, but keep an eye on the
thermostat. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and hydrated summer with your
best friend

MadKat Dog Training
www.madkatdogtraining.com
(516) 445-5718