In my last blog I talked about how great it was to get out and take your pooch(es) to the local parks and beaches. This time I want to talk to you about when it is best to leave your pets at home and what you can do to make this a great and safe summer for you and your furry companions.

Here are the top 5 things you should know:

1) The most important item of all. Do not take your dog with you to run errands if it means they are going to stay in the car. They are safer, and better off, at home while you run around. If you have a dog that is anxious about you leaving, work on crate training. Dogs left in cars can suffer brain damage, and even death, within a very short period of time. Dogs have a normal body temperature of around 101-102 degrees. They can only withstand heat of 107-108 degrees for a VERY SHORT amount of time. A car, on an 85 degree day, can reach that temp within about about 15 minutes. Watch out for the following signs; Panting, Dehydration, Diarrhea, Red mouth and red eye membranes, rapid/irregular heart beat, weakness, dazed look, high body temp or coma. If you see any of these, in any animal that is in a car, get medical care right away. If you see a dog locked in a car with the windows up, notify someone right away or try to find the owner. You could save a life. If you are interested in learning more, check out this great site. It has great info and tools to help you.

2) Make sure you keep your dog hydrated. When you go for a jog, swim or just a long walk, make sure you bring water for you and your dog. There are a ton of great travel bowls. The one I use is made from a fabric material and folds down to the size of a CD. I just unfold it and fill it and we are good to go. This is very important as dogs do not sweat like humans. They only sweat from their footpads and nose. They lose water by panting rather than sweating. Keep an eye on their activity level and how heavy your dog is panting. Also, look for signs of the above mentioned heatstroke.

3) Don't overexercise. I know that is not going to be a problem for me, but for Steve (who is OCD for a certain red ball) that is a little harder. He will go until he cannot anymore. I have to regulate him and make sure he is not overdoing it and getting too hot. Most dogs will just lay down when it is too hot, others cannot help themselves. It is best to keep in mind that if you are uncomfortable exercising in the heat, try doing it in a fur coat.

4) Speaking of fur coats... Be careful when you groom your dog. Some dogs have what is called a double coat and should NEVER be shaved. Steve is one of them. The lower coat actually acts as an insulator and helps with body temp. If you are unsure, ask your vet. If you do have a dog that can be shaved, try to keep the fur to no less than one inch. Dogs can get sunburned just like humans, so keep an eye out for that.

5)Festivals, parks and events. Not all places are dog friendly. Sandy Point is a great example. You can bring your dog in if you are going out on a boat, but not if you are visiting the park for any other purpose. Most state parks have the same rules. Festivals may seem like a great place to hang with your furry one, but be careful as hot asphalt can burn pads, leashes can get tangled with people and your dog may get into something that could make it very sick. As far as events go, there are many great dog friendly events that you and your dog can enjoy. Just make sure your dog is ready for the crowds and energy.

If you follow common sense with your companion(s) and make sure that they are safe, hydrated, kept cool and in your control you both will have a great summer of great memories. I will leave you with a very cool link... Interesting!