Beat the Desi Heat: Keep Your Pup Cool with Pawsome Summer Eats (Indian Audience)

1. H2O with a Desi Touch (Chilled Buttermilk): Water is life, and that applies tenfold to dogs in summer. Make fresh, cool water readily available.  For a desi twist:  add a splash of chilled buttermilk (chaas). It’s a common practice in Indian households, and research shows buttermilk replenishes electrolytes lost through sweating, keeping your pup hydrated.

2. Watermelon: Nature’s Summer Cooler: This juicy favorite is 92% water, making it a fantastic doggy treat. Plus, it’s packed with Vitamin A for healthy vision and Vitamin C to boost immunity. Just be sure to remove seeds first.

3. Cool Down with Coconut Water (Nariyal Pani): Ditch the sugary drinks and offer your pup nature’s sports drink – coconut water. It’s rich in electrolytes like potassium, which helps regulate body temperature during hot weather.

4. Frozen Yogurt Fun (Dahi Pops): Many dog-friendly yogurts are available now. But here’s a desi twist: freeze some plain curd (dahi) with no added sugar in an ice cube tray for a cool and stimulating treat. Yogurt promotes healthy gut bacteria, aiding digestion, especially important in the summer heat.

5. Spice Up Their Diet (Methi Mathri):  Skip the greasy fried treats and opt for homemade methi mathri instead.  These crunchy bites are made with whole wheat flour and fenugreek (methi) leaves, which are a good source of fiber and antioxidants, beneficial for your dog’s overall health.

6. Soupy Summer Saviors (Dal Khichdi):  This light and nutritious dish is perfect for summer. Cooked with lentils (dal) and rice, it provides essential protein and carbohydrates, while the broth keeps your pup hydrated. You can even add some shredded cooked chicken for extra protein.

7.  Fruity Fancies with a Twist (Mango Lassi):  Small amounts of ripe mango, pureed and mixed with plain yogurt (lassi), can be a refreshing summer treat. Mangoes are a good source of Vitamin A, and yogurt provides gut health benefits. Remember, remove pits and cores first.

8. Skip the Rawhide (Go for Desi!):  While many dogs love a good chew toy, avoid rawhide chews during hot weather. They can be difficult to digest and cause dehydration. Instead, opt for safer desi alternatives like frozen carrots or neem sticks, which have natural antibacterial properties.

9. Adjust Meal Portions:  Consider feeding your dog smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, especially during the hottest hours. This reduces the heat generated by digestion, keeping your pup cooler.

10. Observe Your Pup:  Pay close attention to your dog’s eating habits and behavior during summer. Reduced appetite, excessive panting, or lethargy can be signs of heat stress. If you notice any concerning changes, consult your veterinarian immediately.