Photo by Mare Czinar

Don’t let the heat stop you from traipsing through town with your four-legged friend. Here are six ways to stay cool with fido.

Dive In
Start the day with a splash at Cosmo Dog Park. This 4-acre, water-themed paradise features a swimming pool with a beach and diving dock designed especially for dogs. Smaller pups can splash around in the combination water fountain/wading pool while their owners stay cool under covered ramadas.
Info: 2502 E. Ray Road, Gilbert, 480-503-6200; ci.gilbert.az.us/parks/popups/cosmo-park.cfm

Eat Up
Follow up the swim with lunch on the dog-friendly patio at Iguana Mack’s. Famous for its amusing ambiance and hearty Mexican food, this busy roadhouse also hosts regular events that support local animal welfare organizations.
Info: 1371 N. Alma School Road, Chandler, 480-899-6735; iguanamacks.com

Clean Up
With your tummies full, wash away the residual lunchtime taco sauce with a bath and brush at A Family Affair Pet Grooming. Here, master stylist Troy Alwood – who honed his skills working alongside celebrity dog handlers – offers everything from express touch-ups to full-blown royal treatments in this cage-free studio.
Info: 3018 N. 16th St., Ste. 2, Phoenix, 602-277-4300; familyaffairpetgrooming.com

Shop for a Good Cause
Indulge your inner do-gooder (as well as your need to score designer duds on the cheap) by dropping off gently used clothing and household items at the Friends of Animal Care & Control Thrift Shop. Leashed dogs are always welcome in the shop, where proceeds from the sale of donated items benefit the many valuable programs offered at Maricopa County Animal Care & Control.
Info: 12625 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, 602-923-6914; azfaccs.org/thriftshop.htm

Offer a Reward
Time for a snack? Bone Appetit Bakery has what your dog craves. The well-appointed shop serves up a good selection of healthy treats in the bakery as well as unusual gifts for animal lovers in the adjoining boutique.
Info: 4810 E. Ray Road, Ste. 5, Phoenix, 480-785-9499; azboneappetit.com

Play Matchmaker
Goodies in hand, head back to the air-conditioned comfort of home to round out the day with an entertaining session on FindMyDogADate.com – a Facebook-meets-MySpace Website for dog lovers. Especially handy for those who are new to the Valley, this online community helps dog lovers connect for play dates, find good services and engage in canine-focused banter.