Sultry Summer Days

Though summer was a bit slow coming, it is certainly warm these days.  We've been near 90 degrees with lots of humidity and not much of a breeze.  We go outside in the mornings to do some light gardening (me) and to check the perimeter (Vilas).  Even though it's morning, it's already warm out there.  Vilas is panting within 10 minutes.  I've tried a couple things to help keep her cool during these dog days of summer.

MINI-POOL: I like to call it the hot tub, but it's really just a rain barrel (whiskey-barrel) liner that never got put to use. I fill it with water, and Vilas drinks out of it.  She must think it's the biggest water dish ever.  After a bit, she decides to stand in the pool.  She usually ends up digging in the pool so water goes flying everywhere, which usually makes me laugh!

Digging away!

I suppose I should get her a bigger pool.  They are probably all on sale at this point in the summer.

What? Why are you looking at me?

FROZEN TREATS: I have been freezing various things to give to Vilas on hot days.  Sometimes it's applesauce cups (no sugar added).  Occasionally I will add some sliced bananas or blueberries to the applesauce before freezing.  I've also frozen a few different baby foods (squash, chicken).  She likes them all!  I put the goodies into small plastic containers and pop 'em in the freezer overnight.  Of course, I keep an eye on her while enjoying these frozen treats so that she doesn't get overzealous and try to eat the plastic. You can also let the goodies thaw just a bit so you can pop them out of the container before giving to your dog. I've tried that, but Vilas can eat that up rather quickly.  When frozen hard, she has to lick and lick and lick.  She seems to love it; she often closes her eyes while enjoying her treat.

Enjoying the frozen applesauce

What have you done to help keep your pup cool on hot days?