Gelato goes to the dogs

Leave it to Italians to come up with just the thing to survive the dog days of summer: canine gelato.

This Italian ice cream for dogs contains no milk, eggs or sugar, which are harmful to canines.

With temperatures in Rome topping 36 degrees this week, dogs are lapping up the icy treat at a pet supply store on the outskirts of the capital.

Dog-owner Anna Bordoni couldn't resist a taste from her mutt Elsa's cup and declared it "fantastic."

Rome veterinarian Marialivia Palmieri says water remains the best cool-down treat for dogs. But she said the special canine gelato does dogs no harm - and can be gratifying for pet and owner.

Flavours come in vanilla, rice and yogurt and a serving costs €2.

- AP