It's some type of gel material that is about 10 degrees less than room temp so when they dog lays on it, it feels cool. You don't have to put it in the fridge or freezer but you can to make it even colder.
There are other kinds that you have to soak in water for like 30 mins then take it out and wait another 30. And apparently they are heavy when wet. No thanks. This one there's not water or mess involved. Gel is non toxic so if a dog shreds it, it shouldn't cause any harm.
I saw some on fab.com for the Sharper Image ones but I missed the sale. I think I like these better anyway, and then I got to order some Cosequin too. Bc I now shun Entirely Pets. They screwed me so now I say screw them!
ETA I guess no one else has no AC except for us huh?