But It’s A Dry Heat….
We may not have much humidity but hot is hot no matter how you slice it. Summer in Scottsdale can be brutal, and it’s not just you who feels the heat. Your furry friend also needs to stay cool and entertained. Scottsdale is known for many things, but cool grassy lawns and shade trees are not one of them. Last I checked, the shade from a Saguaro didn’t provide much relief. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some cool ideas to beat the heat and have a barktastic time with your dog. With a little planning and creativity, you can have a great time with your dog this summer. Here are some pawsome ideas to get you started.
Keep Your Dog Mentally Stimulated
Just because you can’t take your dog outside doesn’t mean you can’t keep them mentally stimulated. You can try indoor activities like playing hide and seek, practicing obedience training or teaching your dog some new tricks. You can also bring your pup to a doggy daycare where they can socialize with other dogs and participate in various activities. Grab snuffle mat and throw a few high-value treats in it for your dog to seek out with their nose. Anything to keep them engaged and not missing the outdoors.
Water Activities To Keep Your Dog Cool
If your dog loves water, there are many water activities you can try to keep them cool. When the temperature rises, nothing beats a refreshing dip in the pool. Luckily, Scottsdale has a variety of dog-friendly pools and splash pads where your dog can cool off and have fun. For big dogs, Chaparral Dog Park has a large pond where they can swim and play. For smaller dogs, Horizon Dog Park has a splash pad where they can frolic and splash around. Just remember to bring plenty of water and stay in the shade to avoid overheating. Scottsdale Quarter also has a splash fountain. The splash pad is for kids but Scottsdale Quarter is dog-friendly and your well-trained, socialized dog will be accepted. Don’t forget to use paw boots to protect their pads from hot pavement. Another great option is to tie a chilled bandanas around their neck to keep them cool.
Public Places For Your Pup
Some days are just too hot and staying indoors is the best option. But if your pooch is tired of being inside, Scottsdale has many indoor dog-friendly locations, including pet stores, cafes, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and even art galleries. Fashion Square Mall, which would be an awesome place for summer walks, does not allow pets. Outdoor malls like Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, High Street Market Place and Desert Ridge are dog-friendly and have a lot of misters but it still may be too hot on some of those 110+ degree days. There are many locally-owned restaurants with dog-friendly patios that have water misters to keep you and your furry friend cool. I like the Hula’s on High Street, Vig McDowell Mountain or OHSO Brewery + Distillery. Just make sure to call ahead and confirm their pet policy. If you have an unruly or reactive dog, opt to practice your training in wide open spaces like at Home Depot, not while others are trying to enjoy a meal.
Mental Stimulation With Doggy Daycare
When the heat is too much to handle, doggy daycare can be a great option. Not only will your dog stay cool and safe indoors, but they’ll also get plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Many doggy daycare facilities offer playtime, training, and even pool time. Look for facilities that separate dogs by size, so your small dog won’t get overwhelmed by larger pups. There are quite a few places in Scottsdale that have pools and the staff are all armed with water guns for extra fun for the dogs.
Keeping Your Dog Cool & Safe
No matter what activity you choose, keeping your dog cool and safe in the summer heat is essential. Always bring plenty of water. If you are driving along and it looks like your dog is overheating despite the air conditioning, go to a restaurant drive-thru. We live in the desert and everyone understands the importance of hydration. Do not pull into a store to get water, stay with your dog in the air conditioning and find a drive-thru. Consider investing in a cooling vest or mat to help regulate your dog’s body temperature.
RunBuddy Mobile: The Ultimate Summer Solution
If you’re looking for a fun and effective way to keep your dog mentally and physically engaged this summer, consider RunBuddy Mobile. I love these guys! Not only will your dog get a great workout in an air conditioned van, but they’ll also receive one-on-one attention and be mentally engaged They provide professional dog running and walking services that are tailored to your dog’s needs. Plus, they can come directly to your home and make sure your furry friend gets the exercise they need, even in the heat. Check out my puppy on Instagram enjoying his first treadmill run. Give RunBuddy Mobile a try and experience the benefits of a happy and healthy dog.
Hiking In The Summer
I do not recommend hiking in the summer in Phoenix. Not for you or your dog. Pilot programs have been being used to cut down on heat-related illnesses and deaths. Phoenix Parks & Recreation just flat-out closes popular trails on days with Excessive Heat Warnings. I mean pretty much all of June to September needs an excessive heat warning if you ask me but if the ground isn’t cooling off at night and it’s 100 degrees at 3am, it just doesn’t seem smart to try to hike in Scottsdale in the summer. Rules change but my recommendation is before you and your four-pawed pal decide on hiking in the summer, check what the temperature is expected to be about halfway through your hike and if it's over 100 degrees, don't go.
Day Trips To Sedona
If you’re looking for a cool getaway, Sedona is my favorite. A little over an hour from Scottsdale, you get a complete change of scenery with mountains, streams, watering holes, trees and lush foliage. Check out my TikTok of West Fork trail. You can take your well-behaved, non-reactive dog on a day trip and explore the dog-friendly trails along Oak Creek. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for you and your furry friend. Pick short trails because it’s still hot even at over 4,000 ft elevation.
Scottsdale Loves Dogs
Arizona has the most dog owners of any state in the US, and for a good reason. Despite the 100 plus degree days and nights, many people find ways to keep their fur babies active and engaged. Remember to keep your dog cool and safe in the heat, and have a bark-tastic time with your furry friend!
