WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – As we approach likely the hottest month of the year for western Washington, keeping yourself cool on these last summer days is usually top of mind. But it also important to keep those fur babies in mind too.

There are many ways to keep your pet cool during this time of year. Walk your dog early or late in the day. The hottest time of day in summer in Whatcom County is between 4 and 5 p.m., so keeping animals inside or in the shade until a more suitable time for that potty walk is ideal for their health. Wait until the sun is not beating down and the temps have started to drop before grabbing that leash and tennis ball.

And another thing to keep in mind: shade can still be too hot for furry critters if the temperature and humidity is high enough. With that in mind, consider other ways to cool them down such as cooling pads the pet can lie on, or water activities like a kiddie pool in the yard or a dog-friendly sprinkler. These things can make a difference if you and your pet are struggling to cool down.

Frozen treats can be a tasty and helpful option for both humans and canines to keep internal temperatures down.

“Frozen carrots and green beans, pet-approved frozen treats from the pet store and freezing canned dog food in ice cube trays are great snacks to cool your pets down,” Katelyn Woods with Whatcom Veterinary Hospital said. “Kiddie pools and sprinklers where permitted are also a fun way for you and your dog to reduce the beat down of the heat. Cooling mats and fans are great for inside the house when you don’t have a yard to cool down in. Knowing when it is appropriate to bring your pets out and about with you on walks or in the car is also very important, if the ground is too hot for your feet, it is too hot for their feet.”

Bringing your pet with you around town is a common habit, but it’s worth considering where you’re going and if Fido can come with you. Leaving the dog in the car even with a window cracked won’t be fun for them and could still be unhealthy as it will get hot in there.

Remember that if you’re sweating a bit, or walking a little fast as the ground is a little too hot to touch, your pet is also right there with you experiencing those conditions. Keeping their well-being in mind can save you stress and heartache down the road.