Summer Shaving When summer comes lots of folks want to have their dogs shaved to help them stay cooler.  Expert recommendations vary on the topic of whether to clip a dog’s coat.  However, the ASPCA suggests for a double coated dog like a Chow trimming may help, but don’t shave.  Leave at least one inch to provide insulation and protection from sunburn.  Long-haired dogs with a single coat like Border Collies should not be clipped as their coats may not be dense enough to protect them from the sun when short. It is too hot for a pet to be left in the car for any length of time, even for a couple of minutes. If you jog with your dog, do so in early morning or late evening and take water along.  If it is over 85 degrees the dogs cannot cool themselves fast enough. If your dog is outside put a fan out there with him, it will help cool him and keep the mosquitoes away. Keep water bowls clean and full of fresh water.  Add a few ice cubes and a slice of cold melon can cool and hydrate a hot dog.