Beat the Heat with Tips & Treats for Your Pets!
We hope you and your pets had a safe and happy 4th of July!
Now that summer’s in full swing, we’re excited to share fun ways to beat the heat with your furry friend—from safe outdoor adventures to refreshing homemade treats.
At Plymouth Helping Hands for Animals, we’re proud to support local pets in need with food pantries, veterinary assistance, and seasonal tips designed to keep every pet healthy, happy, and cool all summer long.
Summer Pet Safety Tips
Before you head outside, keep these warm-weather tips in mind:
Stay hydrated: Always bring water for you and your pet.
Protect paws: Avoid hot pavement—walk during early morning or evening hours.
Never leave pets in parked cars: Temperatures rise fast, even with windows cracked.
Watch for heat stress: Look out for heavy panting, drooling, or fatigue.
Prevent pests: Check your pets regularly for ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes that thrive in warm months.
Cool Indoor Fun
Too hot for walks? Try these fun and cooling enrichment activities—also perfect for rainy days!
Frozen toy puzzles: Stuff a Kong with peanut butter or mashed banana and freeze it.
Lick mats: Spread peanut butter, canned pumpkin, or wet food on a silicone mat and chill it in the fridge.
Ice bowl treasure hunt: Freeze toys or treats in a bowl of water — let them "dig" for them as it melts!
Indoor scavenger hunts: Hide treats around the house for a nose-powered adventure.
Ways To Beat The Heat (Locally!)
Stay safe & cool with your pet this summer in and around Plymouth:
Splash around at Nelson Memorial Park
Take shady strolls at Myles Standish State Forest
Visit a pet-friendly patio like Anna's Harborside
Walk the Plymouth Waterfront early or late to avoid midday heat
Check out dog-friendly beaches (check time and leash rules)
Explore even more options in our “Pet-Friendly Plymouth” post, linked below.
Frozen Favorites For Your Furry Friends!
Keep your pets cool, happy, and begging for more with these tail-wagging, whisker-licking frozen delights!
Doggie Delight Pupcream Pops Ingredients:
1 banana
½ cup peanut butter (xylitol-free!)
32oz container of plain Greek yogurt
Medium Milk Bone dog biscuits
Instructions:
Place the banana, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt in the blender and blend until smooth. Spoon the ice cream mixture into ice cube trays. Stick Milk-Bone dog biscuits into the ice cube trays and freeze for 2 or 3 hours. Store in the freezer for up to 2 weeks!
Recipe found here: www.smartschoolhouse.com/easy-recipe/dog-ice-cream
DIY Kitty Ice Cubes Ingredients:
Low-sodium chicken broth
Small bits of tuna or cooked chicken
Instructions:
Drop small bits into ice cube trays, cover with broth, and freeze. A cool, savory treat your cat will love!
We're Here For You – All Summer Long
Whether you're exploring the trails with your dog, whipping up a frozen treat, or just finding new ways to stay cool indoors, we hope this summer brings joy to you and your pets.
Our mission is to support the bond between people and their pets — through every season. If you or someone you know could use assistance with pet food, supplies, or veterinary care, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
