PET BULLETIN
‘Mews and Yips’ from the Central Aroostook Humane Society
It’s that time of year when we want to be outside to enjoy sunny warm weather and do activities like swimming, boating, going to baseball games, picnics and many more summer events. Of course, our four-legged family members want to join in, so it is important to keep in mind their safety and health.
Never leaving a dog in a warm car is probably the most important thing for us to remember, even if we are going to be in a store for just a few minutes. A car that has closed windows on a warm day can turn deadly in a very short time.
It is very important to check a dog for tick and bug bites.
Also, we get thirsty in hot weather, and so do our dogs, so always keep them hydrated. I add ice cubes to my dog’s water, and he has a great time chasing them in his bowl while drinking.
Personally, I do not like to see dogs at crowded, hot events. I feel they are much better off at home where it is cooler.
Dogs can suffer from sunstroke, so please watch your four-legged pal closely. Try to keep him out of the sun. Dogs cool themselves by panting, but if it is extremely hot the dog cannot keep up.
Many dogs love to swim, but don’t leave them unattended because there are dogs that can’t swim.
Be careful when walking your dog and try to stay away from blacktop, as it can become very hot and the dog’s pads can become very painful.
Now that I have discussed some preventive health measures for dogs during hot weather, I would like to suggest some fun things for pet owners and pets. Walk your dog either early morning or later in the evening to protect him from the sun and heat. Play fetch, Frisbee or throw him a ball, but don’t overdo it for him. Some dogs just don’t know when to stop.
Go swimming with your dog in a lake if he likes water. I had a dog once who loved to swim, but unfortunately she liked to chase the ducks in the lake. We were finally able to get her to shore, but on her next swimming venture she had a long lead attached to her collar.
Kiddie pools work for some dogs. My dog likes to haul the garden hose around, and he gets very protective of it. We have it turned on full blast, and of course he tries to drink the water. Anyone who walks by my house may get a shower when Henry is with his hose.
Most importantly, enjoy your dog or dogs in the beautiful summer, and just heed a few health tips.
Please visit us at the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We have many beautiful residents, dogs and cats, who would like to have a great summer in a forever home. Our hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., closing for lunch 12-12:30. Check us out at petfinders.com and on Facebook.
Please remember to be responsible: spay and neuter your pets!
Carolyn Cheney is a member of the Board of Directors of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
