subject: Cool in Warm, Warm in Cool - Insulated Dog House [print this page] Cool in Warm, Warm in Cool - Insulated Dog House
Having a pet can be like having a new born baby in some respects. Neither can actually communicate to you exactly what they are thinking or feeling. Neither of them can come right out and tell you they are hungry, tired, too hot or too cold. They use sounds and gestures or exhibit behavior to try and express themselves but as the owner it is up to you too try and interpret these. The easiest way to care for both is to attempt to assume their needs. You will need to be proactive and realize hey, it's time they got dinner. They also require exercise so a walk or going to the park to have them fetch a Frisbee would be a good idea. I'm talking strictly about the dog now... not the baby. If it's hot house, they need water and a cool place to relax quietly and if it's cold they need to be protected from the wind and cold and a warm place to rest. The best way to serve these last two needs with a dog that lives outside for periods of time would be with a well insulated dog house.
The misconception is that insulation is meant for cool climates however in the hot sun, a well insulated dog house can keep them shaded and with a vented ridge cap for the hot air to escape the inside temperature can stay fairly reasonable. This would be a welcome break from the hot sun for sure. There are two styles offered in the insulated dog houses. The Environmental Ace style is constructed with a composite material, lightweight and easy to fit together. These units are extremely durable, they won't warp or dent and the finish won't fade and crack in the sun like a plastic dog house. They also have adequate ventilation through the roof so it's not like a little sauna in there like plastic can create. The cedar model is also insulated. The cedar itself it a wood that resists insects, arrive stained and sealed and ready to put together. Assembly for both units is made easy with all the necessary material included and predrilled to allow you to have a finished dog house in less than 25 minutes.
A well insulated dog house can take some of the guess work out of the care of your best friend. They will learn that this space can keep them warm in winter and cool in summer so rather than having to try and find a place to get a break from the elements, they will just go to their house. You can feel good knowing you have addressed their basic needs, and your dog in comfortable and safe. These dog houses are clearly not going to work for babies, you'll have to deal with them differently and when they talk, they will let you know!
