Sun’s Out, Tongues Out: Summer Pet Gear for Fun and Safe Fun with Your Pets
- Connor Skaggs
- Jul 9
- 4 min read

When the sun’s blazing, the trails are calling, and your dog’s tail is wagging at warp speed, it’s time to take the fun outside. But let’s face it: Outdoor summer play isn’t all belly flops and tennis balls. Hot pavement, strong currents, sunburns (yes, dogs can get them too!), and dehydration can put a serious damper on your dog’s day out.
That’s why we’ve packed our shelves at Pawpular Companions in Liberty Lake with the coolest (literally!) summer gear around to keep your furry adventure buddy safe, happy, and totally ready to roll.
So leash up, lather on the paw balm, and get ready for a summer packed with wag-worthy adventures.
☀️Sun Protection: Because Fur Isn’t SPF 50
Let’s start with the basics. Dogs need sun protection just like we do, especially short-haired breeds, light-colored pups, and sunbathers who love belly-up naps.
Sun Shield Tee: This UV-blocking tee is silky, breathable, and cool to the touch, keeping your pup comfy and protected. Think of it as a rash guard for Rover.
Canada Pooch Cooling Bandanas: Soak, wring, and tie! These stylish bandanas pull heat away from your dog’s neck (science and fashion in one).
ZippyPaws & Canine Equipment Cooling Vests: Activate with water, strap them on, and your dog stays chill even on the hottest hikes.
Hot Pavement Boots: Paw protection so you don’t have to do the “barefoot test” on the sidewalk ever again.
Paw Balm: Protects against hot pavement, sand, or trail grit. It’s like SPF chapstick…but for paws.

💦Water Play: It’s a Splash Zone Out There
There are two types of dogs in the summer: those who sprint into any body of water without hesitation, and those who accidentally fall in and act personally victimized. Either way, we’ve got the gear to keep both safe and soaked (in the fun way).
Kurgo Surf N Turf Life Vests: These floaty vets fit snugly, keep dogs buoyant, and have a built-in rescue handle. Bonus: They look ridiculously cool.
ZippyPaws Safety Vests: High-visibility, lightweight, and perfect for park or boat adventures.
Ruffwear Buoys & Chuckit! Amphibious Toys: Waterproof, floatable, and super tough. Perfect for games of fetch that involve cannonballs.
Duck Diver & KONG Reflex Toys: Built for tough chewers and water warriors alike. “Can’t pop, won’t sink” is the vibe.
🚿Outdoor Clean-Up Crew: These Gadgets Deserve a Standing Ovation
Here’s where things get next-level. These aren’t just pet accessories; these are summer game changers.
Think: Tailgating for dogs.
Kurgo Go Shower: Portable. Lightweight. Rolls up. And holds 6 liters of water. That’s more than enough to rinse muddy paws, post-beach sand, or even give your dog a campsite spa day.
Mud Dog Travel Shower: Attaches right to your water bottle. Your dog’s personal rinse station, no hose required.
MudBuster Paw Washer: Just add water, stick in the paw, twist, and boom! Clean feet in seconds. (Weirdly satisfying to see, too.)
🚗Road Trip Ready with Summer Pet Gear: Safety First, Squirrel Chasing Later
We know some of your dogs would rather drive the car than sit in the back. But even co-pilots need seatbelts.
Kurgo Auto Zip Line: Keeps your pup secure during car rides, cuts down on driver distraction, and still gives your dog some wiggle room.
(Important safety tip: Always clip it to a harness, not a collar!)
Springer Water Bottles: Leak-proof, flip-up design, and any leftover water drains abc into the bottle, so there’s no waste, no mess, and no tongue-lolling dehydration.
Collapsible Food & Water Dishes: Make traveling a breeze with our wide range of collapsible food and water bowls!
🌲Adventure-Ready…Right Here in the PNW
We’re lucky to live in a pup’s paradise–Liberty Lake Regional Park, Saltese Uplands, Tubbs Hill, and Lake Coeur d’Alene are just a few of the local hot spots for summer romping.
But remember: At this time, the Spokane River is unsafe for pets due to the recent detection of elevated levels of PFAP, AKA “forever chemicals.” Stick to the safe spots, and always check for posted warnings before letting your dog dive in.
⛺Final Tips for a Safe & Awesome Summer:
Hydrate often (bring more water than you think you’ll need).
Watch for signs of heat stress (excessive panting, glazed eyes, disorientation).
Don’t forget to dry off your dog’s ears post-swim to avoid infections.
Never leave your dog in a parked car–yes, even with the windows cracked.
Make your basecamp Pawpular Companions! We’ve got your back (and your dog’s tail).
Level Up Your Dog’s Summer Adventures
Whether you’re planning a lake day, a mountain hike, or just a backyard splash fest, our curated summer gear is designed to keep tails wagging and tongues lolling.
Stop by Pawpular Companions in Liberty Lake to see these paw-some products in action. We’re a local, family-owned business, and we’re proud to help you and your furry besties make the most of the dog days of summer.
Skip the big box stores. Skip the shipping delays. Shop for your summer pet gear at Pawpular Companions.
Shop small. Shop local. Shop Pawpular.
See you on the trail! 🐕💦☀️
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