The Truelove Dog Cooling Vest, priced at £18, is being snapped up by pet owners looking to keep their animals safe in the ongoing heatwave. The vest works by being soaked in cold water and wrung out before being placed on the pet; as the water evaporates, it wicks away heat and lowers the animal's body temperature.
Sizes and Features
The vest is available in six sizes, from XXS to XXL, with the XXS and XS currently on sale. It features nylon webbing with integrated reflective material, which bounces heat away and improves visibility in low light. The XXS fits dogs with a 12-14 inch chest, while the XXL accommodates chests measuring 32-39 inches.
The vest is adjustable with a double zipper for easy on and off, and includes a D-ring on the back for attaching a lead. It can be worn over or under a regular harness for extra security. Prime customers can get free next-day delivery.
Shopper Reviews
Shoppers have praised the vest, with one saying: “Fabulous during this heatwave. Fits well.” Another added: “This is the best cool jacket I've ever bought for my dogs. It keeps then nice and cool, particularly around their chests which is so important. They stay in place. There are two zips so you can choose which one to use to get a good fit. They've been a real life saver in this heatwave. They stay cool for 4-6 hours before I have to re-wet them. The fabric is very durable and good quality. They don't make my furniture wet. I highly recommend them.”
However, some noted drawbacks. One customer said: “Although I followed the sizing guide the vest is quite tight and it’s much shorter in the body than the illustration suggests; only covers half of my xl dog’s back.” Another warned: “Great cooler only problem was the colour fastness of the trim. Colour ran and stained my dog and my carpet!!!”
Alternatives and Impact
Other cooling options include the Petface 40cm Cooling Dog Coat for £15 at Argos, which has a velcro strap but is less secure on walks, and the Crufts Cooling Vest at Dunelm, now 50% off at £3.50-£7.50 depending on size. One reviewer of the Truelove vest noted: “22 degrees c. My long haired terrier wouldn't normally cope at all. With the cool coat, he doesn't even pant. It works immediately. I soak mine in very cold water before setting off and store it in a strong ziplock bag. Then I put it on when the day heats up. It has made such a difference. Seems very well made and robust. I've taken a star off simply because I feel I need to refresh it every 2 hours but I haven't tried one of the very expensive ones so this may be average.”
