Although back in the day, people haven’t used cooling vests for dogs. At the same time, you probably understand that herding, guarding and hunting dogs never used it as well. However, things have changed from the moments that happened a few hundred years ago.
Dogs have evolved in completely different perspective. First thing is the idea that they have lived outside all the time, meaning they had months to get used to the weather altogether. However, if you leave dogs outside, they will have a completely different reaction.
By entering here, you will learn more about helping dogs in specific situations. Nowadays, dogs are continually in temperature-controlled environment.
It is challenging for them to handle the process when going outside. Another important consideration is that traditional dogs used to sleep during the hottest periods of the day, especially in a hole or under a bush. Therefore, they have not ventured out unless they had something checking out.
However, these days we tend to take dogs for a walk based on our schedules. In some cases, we bring them to a sunny beach for longer periods or on vacation. Still, they are with us in the sun or in other areas.
Everything depends on a breed you have, because each one comes with specific set of limitations and requirements. In general sense, dogs were bred for practical reasons. Things have changed, meaning most breeds are here for appearance, but they are physically challenged and unable to handle prolonged sun as their ancestors.
Since their lives are completely different than the one, they led back in the day, you must ensure they can handle the weather conditions in proper manner without risking their health throughout the process.
As a result, you can implement a cooling vest. Still, you should learn how to use them properly.
Things to Know About Cooling Vests
We can differentiate three types of cooling vests that you can find on the market, including:
- Evaporation-based
- Ice-sheet vests
- Reflective vests
1. Evaporation Vests
As you probably understand by now, these vests function by creating a large surface for evaporation processes. It means they function by utilizing the same process as we use to cool down through sweating. Therefore, the water changes from gaseous to liquid state, while it pulls energy from surroundings by creating a small drop in temperature.
Of course, you can create similar effect by soaking your dog before leaving a home. However, wet fur can lead to hot spots and rubbing especially if you have double-coated or long-haired dog. On the other hand, for thin-haired dogs, the water will dry fast. Visit this website: https://worldvet.org/ to learn more about pet care.
Cooling vest is way better solution, because you will achieve long-lasting effect. However, the biggest disadvantage is the effectiveness, because it depends on humidity levels. It means the evaporation may go slower on humid day. On the other hand, if the air too dry, the evaporation will be fast.
2. Ice-Sheet Cooling Vests
One of the risks of placing the ice-cold vest on a dog is the idea that you will make them uncomfortable, while the process can lead to joint issues as well. Another factor to remember is that cooling a regular vest and putting them on your canine friend is uncomfortable process.
Finally, using the ice-sheet vest is problematic because you will overcool the specific areas, meaning the vessels will constrict the blood flow. As a result, the natural reaction to overheating will stop and you will cause further havoc. Therefore, you should choose other options instead.
3. Reflective Vests
When it comes to reflective vests, it will not offer the direct or active cooling process, but it will help you reflect the sun in best course of action. The biggest benefit is that you can use it anytime and anywhere, meaning you do not need to bring additional ice-sheet or water to ensure your dog remains wet or cold.
The reflective vest functions as partial shade, meaning it is great during a competition when you are continually waiting for others to compete. Other reasons to bring it is during long-distance hikes. It is also important solution because it will prevent heat from radiation from the environment, which will prove useful in the long run.
When it comes to finding Dog Cooling Vest, you should know that this particular technology is beneficial but features a few downsides and limitations that are essential to understand. They are considered as cooling vests, but they do not cool down directly, meaning your dog may still experience severe heat issues.
This particular type of vest will only slow the temperature and prevent further heat radiation. Instead of overheating, your dog can stay active for longer periods, but you should still keep it in check to prevent potential problems from occurring. At the same time, this particular vest will not cover the entire dog, meaning their neck and head will still warm up.