Amazon’s gel-infused dog cooling mat prevents pups from overheating during heatwave

During a heatwave, it is advised to keep dogs in the shade, and go out for walks when it is cooler on morning and in the evenings

As the nation basks in a heatwave, pet owners should keep a special eye on their beloved dogs. According to the RSPCA, canines are at high risk of dehydrating or getting heatstroke during high temperatures.

Pet owners can take preventive measures, including keeping pups in the shade, making sure they drink plenty of cold water, and having something cool on which they can lie. The RSPCA recommends sitting dogs on a damp towel, but these are not waterproof and hence not accident-friendly.

An alternative is investing in a pet-cooling mat specially designed for hot weather conditions. Amazon is selling a Pecute Dog Cooling Mat with prices ranging from £17.99 (for the small size) to £49.99 for the extra large size.

READ MORE: Liz Earle launches huge skincare bundle worth £191 for under £70 but you’ll need to be quick

READ MORE: Top UK pubs and restaurants offering cheap deals to dine out this summer from £12

The gel-infused mat is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and wear-resistant. There’s no need to refill it; shoppers can pop it in the fridge or freezer before use.

The Pecute Dog Cooling Mat absorbs a dog’s body heat, stopping them from overheating and dehydration. It can be placed on top of dogs’ beds, as well as inside crates or kennels, or on top of couches and floors.

For consumers with plenty of garden space, a paddling pool is another heatwave option. Pets at Home is selling a Cooling Pet Paddling Pool for £20 and it requires no inflation. It is also designed with a lead clip for secure bathing and a drainage plug.

Amazon’s Pecute Dog Cooling Mat has more than 17,00 customer reviews. A customer ordered the XL size for their 45kg German Shepherd, commenting: “He loves it and uses it all the time. Cushioned and so cooling for him. Have used others in the past, but not so cushioned, and now he’s 12, he needs a bit more comfort. Would thoroughly recommend.”

A second buyer approved of the product, but said their dog ‘hated it’ and refused to use it. The customer said their dog still opts ‘to lie on the tiles.’ This could be an issue for other dog owners too, but there are other kinds of cooling items on the market.

For instance, this Dog Cooling Vest from Spark Paws fits over the body like a harness. It is offered in a seven different sizes with prices from £18-£22. It promises to reduce a dog’s body temperature by using evaporation. To use, wet it in water, wring it out, and then place it on your dog’s body.

Back to customer reviews on Amazon’s Pecute cooling mat, a fourth person bought it for their cockapoo, who has been using it for a week: “It does work and he feels noticeably cooler to the touch after lying on it – it’s really helped him through the recent heat spike.”

The shopper continued: “He’s had a little scratch, and the material hasn’t torn or anything and remains strong. It seems to be pretty resistant and good quality, at least so far. I’d recommend it, and so would our cockapoo.”