Most pet owners look forward to summer because warm weather gives us plenty of chances to enjoy outdoor activities with our pets. Even so, responsible pet parents should remember that pets can suffer heat exhaustion and dehydration, just like people.

Your dog's fluffy coat and inability to communicate exactly how it feels can make it even more vulnerable to the heat than the two-footed members of your pack. Thus, responsible pet parents must protect themselves and their furry friends from overheating. Consider these suggestions to keep your pet cool, indoors and outdoors:

1. Plan sensible outdoor activities

Planning your outdoor activities during cooler times of the day will help you and your pet avoid succumbing to the heat. Summer temperatures peak during the afternoon, but you and your pet can usually enjoy milder weather in the morning or early evening. Even if you beat the day's peak temperatures, ensure your dog can access plenty of fresh drinking water.

2. Stay cool with water play

Hot weather and water go together like peanut butter and jelly. You and your pet can enjoy water play in the backyard by setting up a kiddie pool, hose, or sprinkler. Beach walks will also give both of you a chance to cool off in the surf and spray. You can buy dog-friendly water bottles and collapsible bowls to help your pet satisfy his thirst.

3. Maintain your pet's chill with cooling aids

You may have noticed that your dog gravitates towards cool tile floors for indoor naps during hotter times. Likewise, you could create a dog-friendly cooling station to help extend outdoor play. For example, buy a cooling mat to help absorb body heat and provide a comfortable place to relax. Otherwise, large ice packs or damp towels can offer many of the same benefits. Add a water bowl and a sunshade, and you're all set!

4. Don't ignore ground temperatures

If you can't walk barefoot because the sidewalks will burn your feet, give your pet the same consideration. Grass or shaded paths may help. Consider investing in a set of dog shoes to protect your pet's tender paws from heat or debris.

5. Keep your pet hydrated

Your pet needs constant access to drinking water when you're at home or enjoying outdoor adventures. Even plenty of fresh water might not prevent dehydration during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. You can purchase special electrolyte mixes for pets, like Electrolyte Chews. This tested blend of minerals and vitamins will help maintain your dog's fluid balance and overall health.

6. Maintain a cool home

High energy costs or conservation efforts may encourage some people to shut off the AC or set thermosets very high when they leave home. However, dogs' body temperatures average slightly higher than human body temperatures, so they're often uncomfortable when the indoor thermometer reads over 85F. As an alternative to keeping the AC set lower, add a fan to your dog's space to circulate air and provide the same cooling as a gentle outdoor breeze.

7. How to keep your dog cool and calm

Ideally, measures such as proper timing of outside activities, providing plenty of water, cooling supplies, and shade can keep your pet from ever suffering in the heat. Different breeds or individual dogs have more heat tolerance than others, so you should monitor your pet for signs of heat stress. Since your dog can't speak English, he may communicate his discomfort with such symptoms as excessive panting, fatigue, and anxiety.

Besides warm temperatures, summer also offers lots of excitement that can stress dogs. Some examples include backyard BBQs, storms, and noisy fireworks. Chillout Chews offer natural, dog-safe ingredients that help protect your pet's emotional and physical health.  These chews help reduce stress, and anxiety and promote a sense of calm for dogs that may experience anxiousness or nervousness during certain situations, such as loud noises, travel, or separation from their owners.

Follow these tips to keep your pup happy, healthy, and cool this summer.