I can't find the archives wildman, so I'll be giving you a call when I get home next week. The alcohol should work good. Dumping water on em or letting lay down in the water would be good too, as long as it's not in a pod full of gators like most are here now with this drought.
Conditioning is also critical.
A fat, out of shape dog is not gonna fair too well in the heat. Electrolytes have more to do with dehydration than overheating. They may help their performance, but shouldn't keep them from over heating.