Keeping dogs cool in the UAE summer - in pictures

From dips in the sea to special doggy ice cream, local canines have plenty of options to beat the heat

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Having spent a few summers in the UAE, we’ve developed a repertoire of tips and tricks on how to stay cool, such as frequenting air-conditioned cinemas and malls or an evening swim in the community pool. But when your family includes a dog, it is essential to know how to keep them safe in the heat and offer summertime treats.

The National photographer Chris Whiteoak visited several dogs and their owners to find out how they keep their four-legged friends comfortable. Agent, a dachshund, wore a canine life vest as he took a swim in the sea at a beach in Umm Al Quwain.

At Business Bay, Hamad Mughawer treated his dogs Emi, a Havanese, and Oscar, an English cocker spaniel, to some special doggy ice cream by Swedish brand Hugo and Celine. My Second Home pet resort, in Dubai Investments Park, is full of pups enjoying recreational options, such as swimming in the pool and playing in the world's largest indoor dog park. Find out more at mysecondhomedubai.com.

Tips for your canine friend

Natalie Stones of Animal Action UAE recommends ways to keep your canine cool this summer:

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - July 3rd, 2018: Photo Project. Dogs keeping cool in the desert. Natalie Stones: Animal Action UAE Co-founder with her dog Penny a terrier chiuaua mix. Tuesday, July 3rd, 2018 at The Springs, Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National
Natalie Stones, co-founder of Animal Action UAE with her dog Penny, a terrier-Chihuahua mix. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • Use cooling pads or freeze rolled wet towels that can be laid out on the grass or ground during your dog's outdoor play time.
  • Fill a small kiddie pool with water - preferably the night before so the water is cool in the morning and stays cooler longer, or add bags of ice cubes - and have your dog fetch balls you throw into it.
  • When you water your grass or plants, let your dog enjoy a spray from the hose, specifically on the belly, chest and head.
  • Never walks dogs when it is too hot. Touch the back of your hand to the ground and if it is too hot to keep your hand there for five seconds, it is too hot for a dog to be walked on that pavement, so stick to grassy areas.

Learn more about what Animal Action UAE does in the community at www.facebook.com/animalactionuae, where you can also find furry friends who need foster homes and forever homes.

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