Keeps Corner

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! 🐾 As our furry pals gracefully age, their health needs a bit of extra TLC. While traditional vet care is vital, many of us are curious about holistic approaches to keep our senior dogs wagging happily. So, in this post, let's dive into the wonderful world of holistic doggy care, where we'll explore natural remedies and therapies that can help your aging pup not just survive but thrive! The Perks of Going Holistic Why go holistic, you ask? Well, it's all about giving your senior dog a complete health makeover. Holistic care doesn't just treat symptoms; it takes care of the root causes and boosts overall well-being. Here are some paws-itively awesome benefits: Fewer Side Effects: Holistic remedies are like the spa day of treatments – fewer side effects and more relaxation. A Quality of Life Upgrade: It's like turning back the clock for your pup, reducing discomfort and pain. Life Extension: Who doesn't want more quality time with their furry friend? Holistic approaches often help extend your dog's joyful journey. Natural Remedies for Common Canine Woes Arthritis and Creaky Joints Arthritis is no fun, especially for our senior pals. Enter glucosamine, the superhero supplement. It's like giving your dog's joints a comfy cushion. Glucosamine helps maintain healthy cartilage and can make those joint pains a thing of the past. Our Canine Keeps Hip & Joint Mobility Chews contain the powerhouse trio of glucosamine, chondroitin, and msm, plus other premium ingredients such as green lipped mussels and collagen. Tummy Troubles Aging dogs sometimes get finicky tummies. That's where probiotics come to the rescue! They're the friendly bacteria that keep the gut shipshape and boost your pup's immune system. Canine Keeps All-in-One Multifunctional Chews contain probiotics, plus enzymes and pumpkin to help support your dog’s digestive health. Alternative Doggy Therapies Acupuncture for Canines Imagine your dog getting acupuncture - it's like a spa day with tiny needles! Acupuncture can help manage pain, arthritis, and even neurological issues. Your dog might just become an acupuncture enthusiast! Chiropractic Care for Happy Tails Chiropractic care focuses on making sure your dog's bones and muscles are in tip-top shape. A chiropractor can help your pup stay mobile and pain-free – think of it as doggy yoga for the spine! Hydrotherapy - Swimming Time! Hydrotherapy isn't just for human athletes; dogs love it too! It's fantastic for senior dogs with joint problems. Picture your pup in a pool or on an underwater treadmill, getting low-impact exercise and building muscle. Herbal Superheroes and Their Canine Uses Milk Thistle - The Liver Lover Milk thistle is like a liver spa for your pup. It helps keep the liver healthy, detoxifies, and supports digestion. Chill Out with Chamomile Does your senior dog have anxiety? Time for some chamomile, the ultimate calming herb. It's like a cozy blanket for their nerves.  Our Calming Hemp Behavioral Chews contain chamomile, organic hemp seed, valerian root & natural and organic ingredients to support a calm disposition. Boost Immunity with Colostrum Colostrum is an immune-boosting powerhouse. It helps your pup fend off illnesses and stay strong. It's like giving your furry friend a superhero shield against sickness.  Our Allergy & Immune Support Chews contain a powerful dose of colostrum, as well as wild Alaskan salmon oil, vitamin C, probiotics and other immune-support ingredients. Doggy Lifestyle Makeovers Nom, Nom, Balanced Diet Your dog deserves a gourmet experience even in their golden years! Make sure they get a well-balanced diet with senior-specific dog food. Portion control is crucial to keep those joints happy. Mental Gymnastics Exercise your pup's brain with fun puzzle toys and training games. Mental exercise is just as vital as physical activity, and it keeps those senior neurons firing. Social Butterfly Don't forget to arrange playdates with other dogs and spend quality time with your aging dog. Social interaction keeps them sharp and emotionally happy. Consult with a Holistic Vet Before going full-on holistic, schedule a chat with a qualified holistic veterinarian or integrative practitioner. They'll create a personalized holistic plan that works in harmony with conventional vet care. So, there you have it, a playful peek into the holistic world of senior dog care, now with a touch of glucosamine goodness! By adding some natural remedies, playful therapies, and a bit of extra love to their routine, you can help your aging pup live their best life in their golden years. 🌟🐶💕 Remember, for the full scoop on these holistic approaches, do your homework, consult with a vet, and get ready for some tail-wagging fun! 🐕

Dog allergies can be a source of discomfort for our furry friends and a cause of worry for pet owners. As the prevalence of allergies in dogs continues to rise, it's crucial to understand how to manage them effectively and naturally. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore a range of home remedies and tips to help your dog find relief from allergies while minimizing the use of medications and chemicals. Whether your dog suffers from food allergies, environmental allergies, or skin irritations, this article will provide you with valuable insights on how to improve their quality of life. Understanding Dog Allergies Before diving into natural remedies, let's first understand what dog allergies are and the common triggers that can affect our canine companions. Dog allergies are essentially an immune system response to allergens present in the environment or their diet. These allergens can include: Food: Certain proteins, grains, or additives in commercial dog food. Environmental: Pollen, dust mites, mold, and even flea bites. Contact: Allergic reactions to materials like plastics or synthetic fibers in bedding or toys. Identifying Allergy Triggers Identifying the specific allergens that trigger your dog's allergies is crucial for effective management. Here's how you can go about it: Allergen Testing: Consult with your veterinarian to conduct allergen testing, which can help pinpoint the exact substances your dog is allergic to. This is particularly helpful for food allergies. Elimination Diets: For food allergies, consider an elimination diet. Start with a hypoallergenic dog food and gradually reintroduce ingredients to identify the culprits. Observation: Pay close attention to your dog's behavior and symptoms. Note when and where they exhibit signs of allergies, which can offer valuable clues about the allergens involved. Natural Remedies for Dog Allergies Now, let's explore some natural remedies that can provide relief for your allergic dog: Dietary Adjustments: Begin by modifying your dog's diet. Opt for hypoallergenic dog food, which typically contains novel protein sources and limited ingredients to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Alternatively, consider preparing homemade meals using vet-approved recipes. Supplements and Herbs: Certain supplements can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve skin health. Probiotics can support a healthy gut, which plays a significant role in the immune system. Quercetin, a natural antihistamine, can also be beneficial. Topical Treatments: If your dog suffers from skin allergies, natural topical treatments like oatmeal baths and aloe vera gel can soothe irritated skin and provide relief from itching. Supplements and Herbs to Alleviate Dog Allergies When it comes to managing your dog's allergies naturally, supplements and herbs can play a significant role in alleviating symptoms and promoting overall well-being. These natural remedies can be particularly beneficial for dogs suffering from environmental allergies, food sensitivities, or skin irritations. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil supplements, are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These essential fatty acids can help reduce itching, skin inflammation, and redness in dogs with allergies. Additionally, they support overall skin and coat health, which can be especially important for dogs prone to skin problems. Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut can help boost your dog's immune system and reduce allergy-related symptoms. Probiotics can also aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, which is essential for overall health. Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural antihistamine found in foods like apples, berries, and broccoli. It can help reduce histamine release in your dog's body, which is responsible for allergic reactions. Bromelain: Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples that has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help alleviate the inflammation associated with allergies and may be particularly useful for dogs with skin issues or digestive discomfort due to allergies. Colostrum: Colostrum, the first milk produced by mammals, contains essential antibodies and immune-boosting compounds. It can strengthen your dog's immune system and help mitigate allergy symptoms. Incorporating these natural remedies into your dog's allergy management plan, along with dietary adjustments and other lifestyle changes, can help improve your furry friend's quality of life and reduce allergy-related discomfort.

As the summer sun shines brightly and the temperatures soar, it's crucial to pay extra attention to the well-being of our furry friends. Grooming plays a vital role in ensuring your dog stays cool, comfortable, and healthy during the hot summer months. In this blog, we'll explore essential tips and techniques for grooming your dog in the summer, helping them beat the heat and enjoy the season to the fullest. Regular Brushing: Brushing your dog regularly, especially during the summer, is essential for their overall coat health. This helps remove excess hair, prevents matting, and improves air circulation to keep them cool. Choose a brush suitable for your dog's coat type and gently comb through their fur, paying special attention to areas prone to tangles or mats. Regular brushing also helps reduce shedding, keeping your home cleaner and more comfortable. Bathing: Giving your dog a refreshing bath is crucial during the summer months. However, avoid excessive bathing, as it can strip away the natural oils from their skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Use lukewarm water and a mild, dog-specific shampoo to cleanse their coat thoroughly. Be sure to rinse them well to avoid any residue that could cause itching or discomfort. If your dog loves water, consider providing them with a shallow pool or sprinkler playtime to keep them cool and entertained. Hygiene and Paw Care: Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial, particularly during the summer when bacteria and pests thrive. Regularly check and clean your dog's ears to prevent infections. Use a damp cloth or pet-safe ear cleaner recommended by your veterinarian. Keep an eye out for signs of fleas and ticks, and use appropriate preventative measures as prescribed by your vet. Moreover, pay extra attention to your dog's paws as hot pavements and sand can cause burns or blisters. Trim the hair between their paw pads to prevent matting and debris accumulation. You can also apply pet-safe paw balms or moisturizers to protect their paw pads from cracking or drying out. Coat Trimming: Consider getting your dog's coat trimmed, especially if they have a long or thick coat. However, be cautious not to shave them too close to the skin, as their coat provides insulation against the sun's rays and acts as a barrier from insects. Talk to a professional groomer about the appropriate length for your dog's breed and coat type. Trimming the hair around their face, ears, and belly can also help keep them cool and prevent matting. Sun Protection: Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to sunburn and heatstroke. Protect your dog from harmful UV rays by limiting their exposure during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm) and providing them with shade. Apply a pet-specific sunscreen to areas prone to sunburn, such as the nose, ears, and belly. Consult your vet to ensure the sunscreen you choose is safe for your furry friend. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial to keep your dog healthy and cool during the summer. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Consider using elevated water bowls to prevent spillage and keep the water cool. Additionally, provide them with frozen treats or homemade ice cubes made from diluted chicken or beef broth to help them cool down and stay hydrated. Grooming your dog in the summer is a vital part of their overall well-being. By following these essential tips, you can keep your furry friend comfortable, healthy, and happy throughout the season. Regular brushing, appropriate bathing, hygiene maintenance, coat trimming, sun protection, and staying hydrated are key aspects to focus on. Remember, a well-groomed dog not only looks good but also feels good, making their summer days enjoyable and full of tail-wagging fun.

Our canine companions bring immense joy and love into our lives. From playful romps in the park to comforting snuggles on the couch, dogs are treasured members of our families. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential health issues they may face, particularly related to their hips and joints. In this blog, we will explore several dog breeds that are prone to hip and joint problems, helping you better understand these conditions and take appropriate preventive measures.  After reading, be sure to check out our Canine Keeps Hip & Joint Mobility Chews page for more information on how these soft chews can help support your dog's joint health! Labrador Retrievers: Labrador Retrievers, known for their friendly nature and loyalty, are one of the most popular dog breeds. Unfortunately, they are prone to hip dysplasia, a condition characterized by the malformation of the hip joint. This can lead to pain, lameness, and even arthritis. Responsible breeding practices and regular exercise to maintain healthy weight are essential for preventing or managing hip dysplasia in Labradors. German Shepherds: German Shepherds are intelligent and versatile working dogs often employed in various roles, including law enforcement and search and rescue. However, they are predisposed to hip dysplasia and other joint issues such as elbow dysplasia. These conditions can cause discomfort, lameness, and reduced mobility. Early detection, controlled exercise during growth, and a well-balanced diet can help mitigate the impact of these issues in German Shepherds. Golden Retrievers: Golden Retrievers are renowned for their gentle temperament and are cherished family pets. However, they are susceptible to various joint problems, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and a condition called osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Regular vet check-ups, a nutritious diet, and controlled exercise can aid in the early detection and management of these conditions, ensuring a good quality of life for Golden Retrievers. Bulldogs: Bulldogs are known for their distinctive appearance and friendly demeanor. Unfortunately, their characteristic body structure and genetics make them prone to hip dysplasia, as well as other joint issues such as luxating patella (dislocated kneecap) and intervertebral disc disease. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular low-impact exercise, and providing them with orthopedic support can help alleviate these problems. Rottweilers: Rottweilers are powerful and loyal dogs, often favored as guard dogs and family companions. However, they are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as a condition called osteochondrosis. Osteochondrosis involves the improper development of cartilage in the joints, leading to pain and joint dysfunction. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate supplementation can aid in managing these issues. Conclusion: While certain dog breeds may be predisposed to hip and joint problems, it's important to remember that not every individual within these breeds will experience these issues. Responsible breeding practices, early detection, regular veterinary check-ups, a well-balanced diet, proactive supplementation and appropriate exercise can significantly contribute to the overall joint health of your furry friend. If you are considering adding a dog to your family, it's crucial to research the breed thoroughly, including potential health concerns. Additionally, consult with a reputable breeder or rescue organization that prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Remember, with proper care and attention, dogs with hip and joint problems can lead happy, comfortable lives, continuing to bring joy and companionship to their human families.  

As responsible pet owners, we strive to provide the best care and nutrition for our beloved dogs. While a well-balanced diet is crucial for their overall health, sometimes it may fall short in meeting all their nutritional needs. This is where multivitamins for dogs come into play. Just as humans benefit from taking multivitamins, our furry friends can also reap the rewards of these supplements. In this blog post, we will explore the various reasons why giving your dog a multivitamin can be a wise decision, promoting their well-being and longevity. Filling Nutritional Gaps: Despite our best efforts to provide a nutritious diet, it's challenging to ensure that our dogs receive all the essential vitamins and minerals they require. Factors such as food processing, storage, and individual variations in nutrient absorption can lead to nutritional gaps. Multivitamins designed specifically for dogs help bridge these gaps, delivering the vital nutrients that may be lacking in their regular diet. Boosting Immune System: A strong immune system is crucial for your dog's ability to fight off infections, illnesses, and maintain overall health. Multivitamins often contain immune-boosting ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and antioxidants. These nutrients help bolster the immune system, promoting better resistance against diseases and supporting a quicker recovery from illnesses. Supporting Joint Health: As dogs age, they can experience joint stiffness, inflammation, and conditions like arthritis. Multivitamins for dogs often include ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to support joint health and improve mobility. These supplements can provide relief from discomfort, promote joint lubrication, and support the overall well-being of your furry friend. Promoting Healthy Skin and Coat: A shiny, lustrous coat and healthy skin are indicative of a dog's overall well-being. Multivitamins enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, and vitamin E can significantly contribute to the health of your dog's skin and coat. These nutrients help reduce itching, dryness, and flakiness while promoting a glossy coat and preventing excessive shedding. Enhancing Cognitive Function: Just like humans, dogs can experience cognitive decline as they age. Multivitamins often contain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which have been shown to support brain health and cognitive function. These supplements may help improve memory, mental alertness, and overall brain function, allowing your furry friend to stay sharp and engaged well into their senior years. Aiding Digestive Health: Digestive issues are common among dogs, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, and upset stomachs. Multivitamins formulated with probiotics and digestive enzymes can promote a healthy gut flora, aid digestion, and improve nutrient absorption. By supporting a healthy digestive system, multivitamins can contribute to your dog's overall well-being and reduce digestive discomfort. Conclusion: While a balanced diet should always be the foundation of your dog's nutrition, incorporating a multivitamin into their daily routine can be a valuable addition. From filling nutritional gaps to supporting the immune system, joint health, skin and coat, cognitive function, and digestive health, multivitamins offer a range of benefits for your furry friend's overall well-being and happiness. However, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements into your dog's routine, as they can provide personalized guidance based on your pet's specific needs. With proper care and attention, your dog can enjoy a healthier and happier life with the support of a well-rounded nutritional regimen, including the appropriate multivitamin.   If you are interested in leveling-up your dog's diet with a multivitamin treat they will crave, look no further than Canine Keeps All-in-One Multifunctional Chews.  These duck flavored soft chew supplements are the perfect way to Play for Keeps with your dog's health!

As dog parents, we love sharing our lives with our furry family members. For many, that may also mean sharing our food with them.  As long as the food is healthy or consumable for humans, it should be good for our dogs too, right?  Unfortunately, that is not always the case.  Although there are plenty of human foods that dogs can handle just fine, there are also many that can lead to severe health issues.  Read on to learn more about which foods you should not be so generous with when it comes to sharing with your pup.   8 Foods Dogs Can't Eat Chocolate Probably the most documented and well-known food to avoid giving your dog is chocolate.  Chocolate contains substances known as methylxanthines, specifically theobromine, which are stimulants that are toxic to dogs.  If ingested, methylxanthines can most commonly cause vomiting and diarrhea, but they can also cause muscle tremors, abnormal heart function, seizures, and even death.  It is important to note that the darker the chocolate, the more theobromine concentration and hence the more dangerous to your dog.   Grapes & Raisins Though there is still ongoing research as to why grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs, it is known that no amount of either is safe for dogs to consume.  Grape & raisin consumption is linked with kidney damage, and can result in kidney failure and even death.  If your dog eats even just one or two raisins or grapes, it is recommended to induce vomiting & contact your vet as soon as you can.  Avocado Avocados contain a substance called persin, which is an oil-soluble fungicide that can cause health problems in dogs.  Persin is found in the leaves, bark, seeds, skin and pits of avocados, making no parts of this delicious fruit safe for your dog.  In large amounts, avocados can cause vomiting & diarrhea in dogs.  The large seed found in avocados presents additional danger, as it can quickly become a choking hazard or cause obstruction in your dog's stomach or intestines if swallowed.   Ice Cream Although it has become quite popular for ice cream & coffee shops to give "pup cups" to your dog, it is probably best to avoid this sweet treat.  Many dogs are unable to break down the lactose in milk as easily as humans do, which can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea.  Ice cream also contains large amounts of sugar, which should also be avoided by dogs.    Onions, Garlic & Chives Regardless of form, whether it be raw, cooked, powdered, or dried, these foods are toxic to dogs.  In addition to gastrointestinal irritation, consuming these vegetables and herbs can lead to red blood cell damage and anemia in dogs.  If your dog happens to consumer any of these foods, it is recommended to monitor them for a few days as symptoms of poisoning may be delayed.     Macadamia Nuts Macadamia nuts should never be fed to your dog.  Macadamia nuts can often be found in foods such as trail mix, cookies and baked goods.  Extra caution should be taken if any of these foods are often left around the house.  Even a small amount can cause poisoning in your dog.  Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and lethargy.  They can also affect your dog's nervous system with symptoms like weakness and tremors.   Raw Eggs Raw eggs, as with most other raw or undercooked foods, can cause food poisoning in dogs.  Bacteria such as salmonella or E. coli can be harmful to dogs, just as they are to humans.  Consuming raw eggs can also lead to a biotin deficiency.  Cooked eggs, however, can be a great source of protein and a tasty treat for dogs, just be sure they are thoroughly scrambled or hard boiled prior to feeding.   Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener) Often found in baked goods, candy, diet foods & some peanut butters, this sugar alcohol can cause the release of insulin in dogs.  This can lead to lower blood sugar levels and potentially liver failure.  Early warning signs are vomiting, lethargy, and reduced coordination.  Make sure to thoroughly check the label the next time you give your dog peanut butter!   Sources: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/human-foods-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/ https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-care-advice/toxic-food-dogs https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/no-chocolate-no-avocado-10-foods-dogs-cant-eat.htm https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/ss/slideshow-foods-your-dog-should-never-eat

As heartbreaking as it already is leaving your dog home alone, it can become even more challenging if your dog is one of the many who suffers from separation anxiety.  Does your dog bark excessively every time you leave the house?  Does he/she show signs of hyperactive or destructive behavior, especially around exits such as windows and doors?  If so, read on to learn a few tips that might help your dog better manage their anxiety the next time you leave. Common Symptoms of Separation Anxiety It can often be tough to tell if your dog simply needs some additional house training, or if their behavior is being triggered by something else.  A good indicator of whether or not your dog's behavior is driven by separation anxiety is to observe if the behaviors displayed when left alone are also displayed when you are present.  If your dog chews on your belongings or urinates in the house while you are home, this behavior is likely not a result of separation anxiety.  Most dogs with separation anxiety will also tend to stay close to their owners & follow them from room to room, rarely spending any time alone.  Some of the most common symptoms of separation anxiety include: Excessive barking, whining, or howling Escape attempts such as scratching or chewing around exit points like windows and doors Urinating or defecating  Destruction of property Pacing or hyperactive behavior Refusal to eat Excessive drooling These behaviors are most often displayed as you prepare to leave or right after you leave.   How to Treat Separation Anxiety Provide a special treat each time you leave Just prior to leaving the house, try giving your dog a puzzle toy or KONG® stuffed with a tasty treat, such as peanut butter.  This should help keep your dog distracted during the most vulnerable period of time for separation anxiety to kick in.  It is equally important that you remember to take the toy away as soon as you get home.   Ensure your dog receives plenty of daily exercise An adequate amount of daily exercise does wonders for the mental health of humans, and our dogs are no different.  Exercising provides a natural release of endorphins in dogs, which can help them feel happier and less anxious.  The socialization your dog experiences during exercise can also help decrease attention-seeking behaviors afterwards, which may lead to less destructive behavior while you are away.  Reduce disturbances The sound or sight of people, other dogs or cars can lead to excessive barking & other unwanted behaviors in your anxious dog.  Closing curtains or blinds & leaving a tv or radio on to create background noise may help your dog remain calm while you are away.    Create a "safe space" for your dog For many dogs, a crate, dog bed, or favorite piece of furniture serve as a place where they often go to in order to lay down, relax, nap or play with toys.  Creating this "safe space" for your dog and encouraging them to spend some alone time there as a puppy can help reduce the likelihood of them developing separation anxiety in the future.   Try Canine Keeps Calming Hemp Chews The use of natural supplements to help soothe anxious dogs has been on the rise.  Canine Keeps Calming Hemp Chews are delicious soft chews that contain natural ingredients like Organic Hemp Seed, Organic Chamomile, Valerian Root, L-Theanine, and Organic Ginger Root.  These ingredients may help promote relaxation & comfort in dogs who experience separation anxiety, and just maybe make it a little less difficult to say goodbye (but probably not).       Sources: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety#:~:text=Give%20your%20dog%20at%20least,and%20tug%2Dof%2Dwar.  https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/separation-anxiety-in-dogs https://pets.webmd.com/dogs-separation-anxiety https://be.chewy.com/health-pet-fitness-8-reasons-your-dog-needs-exercise/ https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/behaviour/separationrelatedbehaviour/treatment

It's that wonderful time of year again.  Longer days, trips to the beach, endless watermelon, and outdoor gatherings with friends and family are in full swing.  These are just a few of the many simple joys of summer enjoyed by humans.  But summer isn't always as simple for our furry friends, and there are some things dog parents should know before bringing their pup to the next neighborhood BBQ. What are the signs your dog may be overheated? Unlike humans, dogs have few sweat glands.  This is why dogs pant, as it is the canine form of our sweat mechanism.  As a result, dogs often have a harder time dealing with the heat than humans do.  If left untreated, heat-related conditions can become dangerous - even life threatening for your dog.  Common signs to look for to determine if your dog is overheated include frantic or excessive panting, bright-red membranes, extreme salivation, lethargic behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or a grayish-purple mouth. Ways to keep your dog cool Provide fresh, cold water The first, and probably most obvious answer is to keep plenty of fresh, cold water available for your dog whenever you are outside in the heat.  If you take your dog on the day's adventures with you, you will want to bring a portable water bowl or squirt bottle along.  Smaller amounts of water administered over intervals of 15-20 minutes will allow for greater absorption.   Protect paws from hot surfaces Surfaces such as sand, asphalt, or metal may heat up in the sun and cause damage to your dog's paws.  Before allowing your dog to walk on these potentially hot surfaces, it is good practice to check their temperature yourself using the back of your hand.  If it too hot for you, it is likely too hot for your pup and should be avoided.  It is best to keep to grassy areas or try using booties to protect your dog's paws if this is not an option. Do not leave dogs in cars Just like you have always been warned about leaving small children in unattended cars, dogs are no different.  Leaving a dog in a hot car can quickly become fatal, even if the car is parked in shade or the windows are left open.  If you are traveling in your car with your dog on a hot day, you should cool your car down prior to putting your dog in and keep the air conditioning running for the duration of the trip.   Plan your walks for mornings or evenings If possible, avoid taking your dog for walks in the middle of the day when the sun is the strongest.  If your schedule does not permit otherwise, try to choose grassy routes that offer plenty of shade (such as woods or parks).   Provide shaded areas Most dogs will naturally gravitate towards shaded areas, which may be provided naturally by trees.  If there are not naturally shaded areas, you can create one using umbrellas, canopies, or even a tarp or cloth would work.  You can also use a shaded dog bed which not only provide shade, but also tend to be elevated above the ground to allow for greater air circulation.   Groom your dog Regular grooming to keep your dog's coat clean and free of tangles or knots can help keep heat from getting trapped under matted fur.  However, it is important to remember that your dog's coat is not only meant to keep them warm in the winter, but also helps keep them cool in the summer.  Be sure to check with your groomer about what is best for your dog and their specific coat.   Know the signs of heatstroke  We can not stress enough about the importance of knowing the signs that your dog may be overheated or suffering from heatstroke.  As mentioned above, the common signs to be cognizant of are frantic or excessive panting, bright-red membranes, extreme salivation, lethargic behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or a grayish-purple mouth. Summer is a great time of the year to get outdoors with your pup.  We hope that these simple guidelines will help you prepare accordingly so you can enjoy this vibrant time of the year with your furry friends.     Sources:  https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dogs-overheating-signs-symptoms-prevention/   https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/care/6-tips-how-to-keep-dogs-cool https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-care-advice/summer-dog-care https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/features/dog-cool-summer