Arizona in the summer can get hot! From May through September, certain areas regularly top 100 degrees. Humans aren’t the only ones who need shade. Pet shade is also vital for animals. Dogs can’t distribute heat away from their bodies as efficiently as humans because they sweat very little.
They do sweat a little in their nose areas and footpads, but their big means of relieving heat is through panting. Fur also traps heat. Humans have less body hair and many sweat glands all over their bodies. This lets them draw heat toward the surface of the skin where it is evaporated by the air.
Key Takeaways:
- The extreme heat in Arizona during summer is quite common, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees from May through September
- It highlights the importance of shade for pets, particularly dogs, due to their limited ability to cool down compared to humans
- Dogs mainly pant to cool down and have minimal sweat glands in their nose and footpads, unlike humans who sweat across their entire body
Dogs don’t get this luxury. Shade for dogs is vital. If it feels hot to you, it feels hotter to your dog. Here are seven creative dog shade ideas to protect your furry friend.
1. Dog House
A classic dog house is more than just a shelter. It’s an effective way to protect your dog from harsh sunlight. By offering a cool, shaded area, a dog house can reduce the surrounding temperature by 15-20 degrees, providing a much-needed respite from the direct heat of the sun.
2. Dog Lean To
Consider building a dog lean-to as a simple yet effective shade solution. Its adjustable nature allows you to position it to maximize shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. This can be a great addition to your yard, ensuring your dog stays cool and comfortable.
3. PVC and Tarp
For a DIY approach, repurpose an old shower curtain and some PVC pipes to create a tarp shade. This cost-effective solution is not only easy to construct but also provides ample shade for your dog to relax under during sunny days.
4. Petbrella
The Petbrella combines a shade provider with a tie-out stake, making it an innovative solution for pet owners. Its portability and ease of setup are major advantages, especially in areas without fences. It ensures your dog stays safe while enjoying the outdoors.
5. Dog Sun Shade Tent
A dog sun shade tent, or “pup tent,” is a portable and easy-to-assemble option available at most big box stores. It offers a dedicated shady spot for your dog to lounge in, perfect for sunny days in the garden or during outdoor family activities.
6. Foldable Tent
For those who love customization, a foldable tent is an excellent choice. You can select a decorative pattern that matches your style, and when it’s not in use, it can be easily stored away, flat and compact. This option is not only functional but also adds a touch of personality to your outdoor space.
7. Natural Shade
Make use of trees, large bushes, and shrubs to shade your dog. Shade for dogs is important and so is the shade for humans. Superior Sun Solutions is the place to meet all your shading needs.
Whether it is sun screens, retractable awnings, or security shutters, they can stylishly meet your needs on any budget. They are conveniently located in several Arizona areas and are fully bonded and licensed. They will help you beat the heat.
FAQs
Do dogs like the shade?
Yes, dogs often enjoy the shade, especially on hot days, as it helps them stay cool and comfortable.
Is morning sun good for dogs?
Yes, morning sun is beneficial for dogs. It provides warmth and is a gentle source of Vitamin D, without the intense heat of midday.
Do dogs need vitamin D from the sun?
Dogs get most of their vitamin D from their diet, not from the sun. Sunlight plays a less significant role in their vitamin D intake compared to humans.
Do dogs need light at night?
Dogs do not necessarily need light at night. They have better night vision than humans and can usually see well in low-light conditions.
Summary
In the intense summer heat of Arizona, where temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees, providing shade for dogs is as crucial as it is for humans. Dogs have limited means of cooling down, relying mainly on panting and minimal sweating through their nose and footpads, unlike humans who benefit from widespread sweating and less body hair.
Given that dogs can’t efficiently dissipate heat due to their fur, creating shaded areas is essential for their comfort and health.