HOT DOGS (AND CATS)

Whew! The "dog" days of summer are here! What can we do to ensure the health and comfort of our pets? Those who dwell in air conditioned comfort don't have to worry about dehydration and panting. This goes for trips in our cars, too. Once it's turned off, if we park our vehicles for ANY length of time, even in the shade, we must all be aware that the internal temperature rises extremely rapidly. I've found that even with the windows open, Sammi is hunkered down on the floor where it's coolest, in spite of some air coming in on top. Having rescued cats for years, I wasn't aware just how fast panting started. I can tell immediately if she's uncomfortable. As many of you know, Sammi spends weekdays in the library. On weekends however, we're at home with breezes from the river to cool us. The humidity is oppressive, however, and I've noticed that she does not like to go to bed in her room (yup, she has one to herself) until much later than usual. So, we stay downstairs in comparative comfort until it's dark when she will go to sleep peacefully. Her appetite is quite small, too, as many of you have noticed with your pets. Much as we all attempt to do, it's best for them to eat smaller amounts more often, and have water available wherever they like to play and sleep-mine are all over the house.... Just remember, if you're feeling miserable---they probably are too!

Frigid weather vs. Fluffy, etc.

During my early morning walk with Sammi today, I had to wrap my heavy wool scarf around my face just to breathe and endure the cold. Right now, in Southeastern Massachusetts it is bitter cold, as it is in many areas of the country. We should all be especially aware of our pets' needs, as we ourselves put on extra layers. Of course they all have fur or hair, but this outer "coat" may not be enough to protect them from the ultra chill presently settled in around here. Some of us have (overly) pampered our pets with sweaters or fleece coats which do add an extra layer in their mid section-not their heads or rear ends, however. Dogs need to go out several times a day, and probably will not want to do so. Whether or not with their human companions, it's best to make it quick. Small dogs, like Sammi, can be aided with puppy pads inside, and using them for a day or two will not break their good housebroken habits, as I have witnessed.
If you are one of those kindly souls helping stray cats, housing is a must, whether in shed, barn, or garage. Extra food helps deal with the cold, which is requiring them to use extra calories to keep warm. (The same goes for house animals who do go outside as needed.) Also, it is very important to check water bowls, which will quickly freeze over. Some folks have little heaters which keep this from happening, if there's an outlet nearby.
Finally, be aware of pets in your neighborhood. A friendly call might alert a neighbor to a pet's distress. If they're away for the day at work, you could give a cat or dog some shelter in the garage if it starts to snow, for example. If you see a stray cat, call your local Animal Control Officer. Should the cat be owned, but has wandered, the shelter will surrender it immediately once a call is made. The awful alternative would be freezing to death, and we don't even want to contemplate that. So------snuggle with your animals and think about scarves for the squirrels!