More Than Water: How Nutrition Helps Shelter Dogs Stay Cool in the Heat

Imagine stepping outside onto a hot pavement in bare feet. Now picture a dog doing the same, wearing a thick fur coat and unable to sweat. Dogs pant to cool down, but in extreme heat, this natural mechanism is often not enough. Summer heat can be relentless, especially for dogs living in crowded or under-resourced shelters. With limited airflow and rising temperatures, they can overheat quickly. 

Hydration is a basic need that is often overlooked. During the hotter months, access to clean, fresh water is just as important as food and shelter. At Wunderdog, we believe every dog, especially those still waiting for a home, deserves to stay safe, cool and well cared for all summer long. 

In regions like the UAE, where summer temperatures in cities such as Dubai can exceed 45°C, the need for hydration becomes even more urgent. Prolonged heat can increase the risk of dehydration, even in shaded areas. For shelter dogs without constant access to fresh water, this can have serious health implications.

Hydration is not only about what dogs drink, but also about what they eat. Moisture-rich meals can help provide an added layer of support, particularly when water bowls are spilled or dry up quickly in the heat. 

Fresh, targeted food plays a valuable role in keeping dogs feeling their best. At Wunderdog, our gently cooked recipes are developed formulated with overall health in mind, including hydration support. When paired with regular access to water, they help dogs stay energised and better equipped to handle warmer days. 

This is especially true in the Middle East, where extended periods of high heat can dehydrate dogs faster than in more temperate climates. Offering moisture-rich food becomes an important part of protecting their health. 

The RAK Animal Welfare Centre provides care, shelter and second chances to hundreds of animals in need. Their team works tirelessly to make sure every dog is safe, fed, and looked after while they wait for adoption. 

Summer brings extra pressure. With more animals arriving, space can quickly become limited. The heat increases demand for water, cleaning and cooling solutions, while resources remain stretched. Even with the best intentions and daily dedication, meeting every need can be a challenge. 

By recognising these seasonal struggles, we can offer more meaningful support. Whether it’s gifting supplies, sponsoring a dog, or simply raising awareness, small actions go a long way in helping shelters like RAKAWC continue their work through the hottest months. 

At Wunderdog, we believe no dog should go hungry or thirsty. That’s why this summer it is easier than ever to support shelter dogs through our Gift a Meal campaign. 

When you gift 3kg of Wunderdog food for the RAKAWC shelter, we double it to 6kg and deliver it directly to the dogs who need it most. You don’t need to do a thing. We take care of the delivery, the doubling up, and follow-ups to make sure your gift makes an immediate difference. 

Each meal is fresh, vet-formulated and packed with the nutrients that support their overall health and wellbeing. With your help, we can keep more bowls full and more tails wagging all summer long. 

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ease the pressure on shelter staff and ensures dogs receive the care they deserve. A nourishing meal boosts energy, lifts the spirits of both the people and dogs at the shelter, and brings comfort to a dog’s day. During the busy summer months, gestures like these make a real difference. 

Behind every meal is a moment of care. It reminds shelter staff that they are not alone, and it shows the dogs that someone, somewhere, is thinking of them. These small acts of kindness help create a stronger sense of community around the shelters we support. 

You are not just giving food. You are giving time, care and hope to animals who need it most. 

Shelter dogs rely on the compassion of others to get through the most challenging days. While summer brings added risks, it also brings an opportunity to step in with simple and meaningful support. Hydration, nutrition and comfort are not luxuries. They are the foundation of a healthier, happier future for every dog. 

By choosing to act now, you are not only easing the strain of the season but also helping shelters build stronger routines of care throughout the year. Whether it comes through food, awareness or encouragement, your support helps create a more hopeful tomorrow for dogs who have already faced more than their fair share. 

Make a difference today by gifting a meal and bringing comfort to a dog this summer.