A few points about keeping your dog cool in the heat. You already know about shade and fans, and that their bare feet burn on hot pavement just like you.

Do try to cool their pads and their fur, but avoid the top of their head. The pads are the most effective area to target with a cool damp towel. The evaporation will help.

If they like water, and you have a tub big enough, a cooling tub of water is great for short periods of time, with breaks. They might also enjoy jumping through a sprinkler (in the shade) or the light spray of a garden hose. Heck, you might join in!

Be careful about ice. Maybe one or two ice cubes in their water, but not more. Drinking very cold water, like ice water, can cause terrible stomach cramps for a dog. And they will need more drinking water than usual.

Tell your dog I said Hi!

@kimlockhartga Thank you ! Do you have cat tips too!

@EVDHmn One of the things I remember from the heat wave we endured was to keep an eye out for panting.

Dogs pant normally, but housecats don't. A panting cat is a sign that it may need cooling intervention.

Our cat showed her first signs of "too much" by splooting on the cooler linoleum floor. Then we started rubbing her down with a cold wet towel, which she didn't much appreciate.

In these times, keeping longer fur shaved down in summer may be a preventative measure.

@kimlockhartga