How to Make Cooling Bandanas for Dogs

The summer heat and humidity can wreak havoc on your dogs. Between the oppressive warmth of the sun and the dog's fur coat, it is impossible to enjoy a full day outdoors with your best friend. Have fun at the park or on a stroll through your neighborhood by making your dog a cooling bandana that will allow him to enjoy the beautiful summer days right at your side. You can construct these bandanas in a single afternoon with supplies that are readily available at your local craft store.

Things You'll Need

  • Long piece of fabric
  • Tape measure
  • Scissors
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Sewing machine
  • Iron
  • Polymer granules
  • Bucket
  • Warm Water
  • Refrigerator

Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a piece of fabric 4 inches wide by 45 inches in length. The length can vary depending on the size of the dog's neck. For instance, a larger breed, such as a Great Dane, may require a piece of fabric that is 60 inches in length.

    • 2

      Fold the fabric lengthwise and sew the side together with a needle and thread or a sewing machine. If you are utilizing a fabric that contains a print, fold the fabric so it is inside out and the print is not exposed. The end result should be a tube that is now 2 inches wide by 45 inches in length. Use a tight stitch to ensure that the tube does have any large gaps between the stitches.

    • 3

      Press the fabric with an iron that is set to the particular type of fabric utilized. Turn the fabric so the right side is out and press it once again.

    • 4

      Sew one of the ends of the tube shut with a needle and thread. Stitch the end a second time to add more strength.

    • 5

      Slowly pour 2 to 3 tbsp. of polymer granules into the tube. These granules are intended for use in gardening to keep water near the roots of plants and flowers. You can find them at most gardening or home improvement stores. Sew the open end shut with a needle and thread. Stitch the end a second time to add more strength.

    • 6

      Soak the band in warm water for 20 minutes. The granules will soak up the water. Mush the cool band with your fingers so the granules fill the entire tube.

    • 7

      Place the cooling tube in the refrigerator for 12 hours.

    • 8

      Wrap the tube around the dog's neck and secure the two ends with a safety pin. You may need to utilize two pins if the dog can rip the tube off.