Dog Cool Pads

http://www.dbarcy.com/article_kool_pad_instructions.htm


Make your own Kool Pads

Step 1) The plant nursery:

Buy a package of polymer granules which are marketed by different companies, but are comprised of x-linked polyacrylamide. This material is very absorptive. 1 lb. will hold 50 gallons of pure water. As the mineral and salt content of the water increases, the absorptive ability of the polymer decreases. This is marketed under the names Soil Moist, Crystal H2O, or HydroSource.

If you cannot find it, call 1-800-962-4010 (JRM CHEMICAL INC.) 13600 Broadway Ave, Cleveland, OH 44125. It is also sold by one pound quantities and more at http://www.hydrosource.com/prod01.htm

Step 2) Fabric

1. Material for the mat- Use a standard pillowcase for a 400 size kennel. Some people like using vinyl for the bottom of the pat and cotton/cotton blend for the top. Light weight vinyl or ripstop nylon can be purchased at most fabric shops.

2. Cut material to whatever size you would like, a top and bottom and sew on three sides. You will need to sew channels or tubes for the granules. Each should be about 1-1/2 inches wide. When you finish, fill each with about 1 tsp of granules per foot of length. Then stitch the fourth side closed. You may find it easier to put 1/2 teaspoon of granules in each tube, and then sew across the width every six inches. It is easier to disperse the granules when immersing then all on one side. A standard pillowcase will fit a 400 crate. Sew 8 vertical channels and then divides each into fourths. Put a tsp. of crystals into each and then sews line of channels shut. The mat will stay damp for several days, maybe as long as five days.

3. Place it in cool water, distilled water is the best. Thirty minutes should give it about 50% absorption. Another hour should use all the absorptive ability of the granules. If its too full or not full enough, allow several days to dry and then adjust the amount in the tubes appropriately.

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Cleaning Instructions

1. WARNING: When not in use hang in a well-ventilated area.

2. To prevent mildew, place in large Ziploc bag or other large bag you can secure in refrigerator where it will stay hydrated for months. If storing longer allow to dry completely and remember it may take over a week.

3. To wash--hand wash in mild soap or vinegar and water, rinse thoroughly, and hang in a well-ventilated area to dry. DO NOT MACHINE WASH OR DRY!

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Other Ideas

These "cool mats" are available commercially; some have a laminated fabric covering closed with Velcro. You might want to experiment with sheeting or some other lighter-weight covering, as the laminate may be too thick to really cool. Using thinner material does allow the dog to get damp. Also, enclosing the mat in a second pillowcase with a Velcro close allows the outer to be washed, may reduce the dampness, and does not interfere with the cooling effect. Don't forget to make a neck band to keep yourself cool at the shows!