Dogs and Warm Weather

Now that Spring is here and the temperatures begin to rise dogs owners need to be even more responsible in the care of their friend. It almost never fails, every time you walk through the parking lot of the mall there is a dog inside a car, sometimes with the windows cracked and sometimes not. This is a dangerous situation for the dog, particularly during the warmer weather months.

Temperatures inside a vehicle can easily exceed 100 degrees even with the windows cracked and the outside temperature well below. These temperature would be unbearable for a person, imagine how a dog must feel.

Dogs cool themselves primarily through panting. Trying to cool off by breathing in hot air in a car is not going to be easy, and ultimately can lead to heat stroke and even death for you dog. If you are going somewhere dogs are not allowed it is best to leave your dog at home where they will be more comfortable.

A lot of dogs love the outdoors. We have a dog that almost never wants to be inside. Be sure to leave your dog plenty of water should your dog be outside, especially when it is hot or warm. If you know that the temperature is going to be exceedingly hot and you are leaving for an extended period of time try to get your dog to come indoors while you are gone.

If you like to take your dog for a walk try to wait for later in the evening when the temperatures are cooler than in the middle of the day.

These are just a few tips that we follow with our dogs. You should always use your best judgement and if you have any questions always contact your local SPCA or humane society.

Did You Know

We thought we would share some interesting information we found out about dogs:

While there is still controversy over how domesticated dogs came to be (either due to evolution of the species or efforts of man) they are descendants of the wolf.

It is generally believed that dogs were domesticated around 15,000 years ago.

Dogs are color blind, the equivalent to red-green color blindness in humans (where reds and greens appear to be beige).

Dog can hear sounds at four times the distance of humans.

While the sense of sight is dominant in humans, smell is the dominant scent in dogs.

Dogs are highly susceptible to theobromine poisoning (chocolate poisoning) because the digestive process in dogs breaking down theobromine is so slow that even a small amount of chocolate can be fatal.

The median life expectancy for dogs is 10 to 13 years, though some breeds may live longer or shorter than this range.

It is estimated that between 3 and 4 million dogs and cats are put down each year, which is why the SPCA and humane societies recommend your pet be neutered and people adopt from shelters rather than purchase a pet.

Young Children and Dogs

Searching online for an article that addressed the issues of dogs and children I came across the Sacramento SPCA (www.sspca.org) which had some good tips and information in selecting the right dog to be around your child.

Puppies are cute and there is no better picture moment than that of a child holding one. However, puppies are babies too. They are very energetic and take a lot of patience, time, and supervision (just like a young child). A child may want to play with the puppy and inadvertently hurt it by being too rough. Puppies also have sharp teeth, and in their playful mood may knock a child down. Should you decide to get a puppy for your child be sure to properly supervise both of them to minimize the chances of either getting hurt.

Adult dogs do require less attention. However, the key with bringing a new adult dog into your home is to help the dog make the adjustment to your family. The family will need to spend time with any new dog, gauging its responses and reactions particularly towards your child. Adopting a dog that has a good history with children is important, and your local shelter should be able to assist you in this regard.

The SSPCA suggests that if you have a child under the age of six you adopt a dog over the age of two. Small dogs with young children may not be the best fit as they may be more easily injured and tend to become frightened by loud noises. Larger dogs may be able to tolerate the rough play, noise, and activities associated with young children.

The breed of dog can be an important decision as well. Labradors and golden retrievers usually make for good family pets, while those breeds that have a more protective behavior (chows and rottweilers) may not be the best choice.

Remember that while you may be getting a dog for your child it is unrealistic to think that they will be the one taking care of it. The choirs of feeding, walking, grooming, and cleaning up after a dog will ultimately fall upon your shoulders.

All dogs have their own temperament and personality. You can always seek advice prior to getting a dog for your family by contacting your local animal shelter or SPCA.

Thunder Struck and Bailey Ducked

As the warmth of Spring pushes the remaining cold of last winter behind us thunderstorms become a common occurrence. Maybe it is just me but the storms over the last few years seem to be more fierce than in years past. Either way, the loud booms of thunder strikes fear in the heart of one of our dogs, Bailey.

Someone once told use that Bailey was a Blue-Tick Hound Dog, though we are sure he is a mix of something. Great dog, very loyal and obedient Bailey loves the outdoors. Out backyard is his playground, and he is not afraid to let everyone know he is in the neighborhood.

The other night was one of our first thunderstorms of the new season, and Bailey was terrified. Normally he would spend the night laying quietly on the floor, but not this night. As soon as the first crack of thunder struck Bailey was pacing around the room and trying to jump over the gate we had put up to keep him from eating our daughters snack.

He howled and wept until my wife went into the room. Bailey jumped up with his two paws grasping at her shirt as if he wanted to be picked up. However, Bailey is not a small dog. My wife sat on the floor and let Bailey lay in her lap. After a few minutes it was time to get our daughter ready for bed, and Bailey once again began pacing the room and trying to jump the gate.

Once our daughter was in bed and asleep Bailey was given a bath and we made a little bed for him on the floor next to ours. He quickly made himself comfortable and settled in for the night without making another sound.

A Reason To Clean-Up Your Dogs Waste

Your yard and ground water can become contaminated by dog waste, as dog feces can be a carrier of pathogens that could be harmful to your pet, you, and your family. In addition, dog waste can be offensive to you and your neighbors and make for a messy yard. Having dog feces removed from your yard can greatly improve the health of your yard, and the quality of life for you and your dog.

Be sure to clean your yard of dog waste at least once a week if you own one dog, or more for two or three dogs. This is an unpleasant job to do, and many people would rather spend their precious free time enjoying other activities. You can always find a local business that will be more than happy to take this choir off your hands for a reasonable fee.