Rolling Canine Bliss: The Ice Cream Van Bringing Frosty Delights to Cool Down Our Furry Friends
Chilling Canine Roadshow Hits the UK: An Ice Cream Van for Dogs Prepares Pets for the Upcoming Heatwave
Buckle up, furry friends! An unconventional ice cream van is on a tour across the UK, dishing out frozen treats tailored exclusively for dogs. Currently, it’s making waves in 10 towns and cities, from Bristol to Great Yarmouth and Derby, promising a frosty delight for pups in anticipation of the rumored heatwave.
Crafted by Pets at Home, this revamped van not only provides dog-friendly frozen yogurts at no cost but also boasts onboard experts. These knowledgeable guides are ready to enlighten pet owners on the art of keeping their furry companions cool and collected when the mercury rises.
Why the canine-specific ice cream van, you ask? Well, recent research unveiled that a whopping 63 percent of dog owners fret about their four-legged buddies overheating. Surprisingly, 41 percent admit they’re in the dark about how to safely assist their pets during scorching temperatures.
But fear not! The rolling ice cream spectacle aims to educate and delight, offering a much-needed frosty escape for our furry pals. Forget the conventional methods; 35 percent might consider letting their dogs take a refreshing dip in open water, while 21 percent think pouring ice-cold water over heads, feet, and toes is the way to go. However, our trusty pet experts have some different tricks up their sleeves, steering clear of these approaches.
So, as the heatwave looms, this innovative roadshow is not just about frozen treats but also about arming pet owners with knowledge, ensuring a paw-sitively cool summer for our beloved canines.
A spokesperson from Pets at Home, the force behind a survey involving 2,000 dog owners, shared, “Our love for pets drives us to ensure their well-being. However, it’s evident from this research that many owners are uncertain about the best ways to keep their dogs cool in the sweltering summer heat.
“Dogs, unlike humans, don’t sweat; they cool down by panting. But on scorching days, they might need extra help to regulate their temperature and prevent overheating. The key is providing cooling mats, shaded areas, and ensuring they regularly drink cool water—feel free to use ice.
“We’re enthusiastic about supporting owners in safeguarding their pets this summer. We look forward to connecting with them on our ice cream van—not just to share treats but to provide valuable advice.
“The research has also brought to light that many owners struggle to recognize if their dog is overheating, with 25 percent confessing they couldn’t identify the symptoms.
Only 38 percent correctly identified ‘confusion’ as a sign of heatstroke, while upset tummies (31 percent) and either bright red or pale gums (19 percent) were also noted as key indicators.
Fortunately, pet owners do grasp certain measures to ensure their dogs stay cool, with 70 percent keeping them out of hot conservatories or rooms, and 60 percent providing cooling mats for them to rest on.
In the warmer months, 78 percent opt to walk their four-legged companions only in the early morning or evening to avoid peak temperatures. However, only 65 percent choose routes that steer clear of hot pavements to safeguard their pup’s paws.
On average, dog owners suspend their usual walks when the temperature reaches 24°C, according to a study by OnePoll.com.
Regarding car journeys with their pets, 56 percent prefer to travel during cooler times of the day, and 55 percent make additional water stops to ensure their furry friends stay hydrated.
Despite the heightened risks to their pets’ health, 57 percent maintain their regular park visits even in warmer weather, and only 19 percent apply pet-friendly sun cream.
Five Essential Tips to Ensure Your Pets Stay Cool During Hot Weather
- Recognize the Indicators of Heatstroke
Given the rapid onset of heatstroke, it’s crucial to be familiar with the signs, such as accelerated breathing or panting, lethargy, and any unusual behavior.
- Ensure Adequate Hydration
Enhance your pet’s hydration by adding ice cubes to their water bowl during particularly hot weather. Ensure the cubes are of an appropriate size and supervise them while enjoying this refreshing treat.
- Provide Shelter
For extended outdoor excursions, contemplate bringing a windbreak or a pop-up tent. This way, your pet can have a comfortable spot to rest away from direct sunlight, and be sure to bring an ample supply of fresh water.
- Beware of Hot Surfaces
Prior to allowing your pet to roam, verify the surface temperature by using the back of your hand. Opt for natural grass instead of artificial turf, as the latter can quickly heat up in high temperatures. On scorching days, stick to shaded areas where it’s noticeably cooler.
- Apply Pet-Friendly Sunscreen
If your pet will be spending considerable time outdoors, consider applying pet-friendly sunscreen designed specifically for their skin to provide protection from the sun.