Here it is the middle of July already!  Many parts of
the country are experiencing extreme weather.
It is important that our pets have adequate protection
from the elements.  Especially, during the summer
months of July and August.  Many pets are lucky enough
to live indoors, and have protection from extremes of
the elements.  However, many do not live inside with
their people.  These dogs have a life rich in
environmental stimulation, they get to see and smell
and experience things our inside dogs never do.

It is only since I moved to the country that my dogs
got to see other animals, such as rabbits and
squirrels, and ugh, snakes.  The snakes were the
scairest of all.  Poor Jinger got bitten by a snake we
never even saw.  She was on the leash too.  Luck was
with us and we were able to rush her to a vet, where
she got 3 shots and some tablets to help with the
swelling.  Within 3 days she was herself again, and
much less likely to stick her head into a clump of
strange vegetation again.

To me this brought home the importance of knowing your
pet, and watching all the time what activities they
are up to.  Jinger is a live wire, on the leash she
has caught a rabbit and a bird, (both survived) I
believe it was only curisoity that caused her to catch
them in the first place, she also mouthed a toad, (it
was unharmed by the ordeal) Jinger got a nasty taste
in her mouth, and probably won't taste the next toad
she encounters.

For summertime, since both my dogs are longhaired, I
give them a scissor cut on the tummy and up the sides
a little, and trim the leg feathers and feet.  Always
the tails and rumps get a trim too.  I have found that
even though a dog has long hair, they need it for
protection from the sun.  However, trimming the tummy
and legs and feet, help them stay cooler, while
allowing their natural protection to stay in place.
The other thing to do is make sure your dog has shade
and water, lots of water.

Just doing these simple things helps your pet have a
very comfortable summer.

Till next time,
Deb