Competing/Training with Your Dogs in High Temperatures

So as you may know, we've just returned from a little Europe road trip where we were faced with the 100th heatwave of the year. It looks like this may be summer life from now on so Jodie has made a little checklist of her own for those of us who compete! Thanks Jodie!

Please note, this is general advice and what works for us, please use all available information and only do what you are personally comfortable with.

1. Ensure good airflow in your vehicle. A crate with the windows and/or doors open is ideal.

2. Use fans, especially misting fans, attached to power banks where possible.

3. Cover vehicles with Aluminet to reduce heat build-up.

4. Carry plenty of water. I'm talking tanks of water, not just a couple of bottles.

5. Have a tub or paddling pool available (I use a fold-down camping washing-up bowl) to dunk paws in or soak your dog with.

6. Freeze water bottles and place them in crates to help lower the ambient temperature.

7. Use Oralade Active, goat's milk, or bone broth to encourage hydration.

8. Use cooling coats—chamois leather-style coats tend to be the most effective.

"Obviously, this is dog dependent, but it can be safe to compete in these temperatures with the right precautions. My van is actually cooler than my house.

The difference between training and competing is that, at a competition, you can warm up, queue in the shade, run for around 30 seconds, then cool your dog down immediately afterwards. Training can also be done safely, but it generally means keeping repetitions very short and returning to the shade for rapid cooling between each one." - Jodie Forbes, world famous dog trainer from that one ITV game show that got cancelled after one episode.

Stay safe out there!

Jordan/Jodie