Warm Weather Essentials

It is rarely so warm that we need to cancel walks in Scotland, but I thought I’d share some of the precautions we take as well as our favourite products with you!

We usually have our walkers start pick ups earlier and cut the time spent outside shorter on very hot days to avoid the warmest hours. During heat waves, there are no hikes. We do slow strolls by water and hang out in the shade. We always do a debrief at the start of the day to make sure everyone knows where they are heading and have a plan.

In the van, we love to use crate fans from DT Boxes and non-spill water bowls so that the dogs always have access to fresh water.

For big training days with our own dogs or warm walking days, I always add electrolytes from the European Pet Pharmacy to the dogs’ water.

In the winter we use our Mud Daddy to clean the dogs after the walks. On the hottest days this summer, we have been filling it up with cold water in the morning and then rinsing the dogs straight out of the van so that they are cool from the start before they get to their swim spot.

A reflective shade cloth is a must! We use these when we run training days and workshops, but have also been putting it over the van while out on a walk so that it stays cooler for us getting back (aircon always takes a bit to kick in).

Finally, a good cooling mat for both the car and for the crate inside the house helps the dogs sleep well and get better recovery.

Have you got any products that help you enjoy the summer more comfortably with your dog?