Dog owners worried about their furry friends in the blistering heat this weekend can use a simple trick to keep them cool.
With temperatures set to soar into the 30s, many people have rushed to buy expensive paddling pools and cooling mats for their doggos.
But experts claim a €1 misting spray bottle filled with icey-cold water will do just as well, Mirror Online reports.
READ MORE: Health fears prompt Met Eireann to upgrade weather warning as hottest day ever on the cards
A spokeswoman from retail company Tap Warehouse said: "Keep your pets cool with a spray bottle filled with cold water and gently spray over their body and feet.
"This will give a cooling effect and relax your pets as some can get distressed when they overheat".
Reusable spray bottles can be bought for €1 or less on Amazon and Ebay.
Owners have also been encouraged to add ice cubes to their dog's water bowls or treat them to an inexpensive 'dog cooling toy' this summer, instead of buying them another squeaky toy or bouncy ball.
A spokeswoman added: "You can also add regular ice cubes to your dog's water bowl to keep it cool, or simply give them a few to chew on. It's a fun activity for them and it will also help them to cool down and hydrate.
It comes after veterinary expert Dr Scott Miller and Barking Heads revealed the best ways to keep dogs cool when it's hot outside.
Dr Miller told The Mirror: "There are plenty of ways you can keep your pet safe from these higher temperatures and to make them feel more comfortable.
"One way is adding extra water to their food bowl. Soak their dry food and/or feed them wet food for additional hydration support."
Unlike humans, our dogs can't handle the heat as well, and they are susceptible to heatstroke if temperatures are high enough.
Whilst they can join us in the garden every now and then, Dr Miller recommends keeping it to the cooler hours of the day, such as the morning and evening, where the direct sunlight isn't as strong.
Heatstroke is very common and can cause significant acute and chronic health issues.
Older dogs or brachycephalic, otherwise known as flat faced dogs, tend to be more sensitive to extreme temperatures.
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