Sun’s Out Tongues Out

Summer showed up, and we noticed. Your dog did, too.

And just as the Robin is the harbinger of Spring, the pools at The Watering Bowl are a sign of warm, splashy days of doggy daycare.

If you haven’t seen them, it’s probably because you’re not a dog. If you have, we’re impressed that you’re reading this. Nevertheless, it doesn’t get any better than filling a pool full of water that is about to become a pool full of dogs.

But it’s not just about having fun. The pools serve a very practical purpose of keeping the dogs cool when they come stay with us. And we encourage you to keep a close eye on your dog as they play outside when they’re not here with us.

Hot surfaces like sidewalks, decking and asphalt can burn your dog’s tender paws. As a rule, if you can’t comfortably hold your hand to a surface for at least ten seconds, it’s too hot for your pup’s pads.

But your dog still needs to get out and exercise (beyond just coming to the cool environs of The Watering Bowl, of course). So try to get out before and after it’s hottest outside. Early morning and late evening walks are great ways to start and finish a day anyway. They’re also safer for you and your dog.

If you are out in the middle of the day, try to find the shade and help your pooch find the grass. Grass is roughly one billion times cooler than pavement, and they’re going to pee there anyway, so let them tread there.

But don’t avoid the pavement all the time. Rougher surfaces help toughen paws. And tougher paws come in handy when bracing against heat. Moisturizer and dog shoes can help, too.

And always watch for signs of dehydration or overheating. Heavy panting and fast, noisy breathing could signal overheating. Watch for dryness of the mouth, gums and nose. And always keep a cold bowl of water nearby. Even a bottle of water during walks along with a collapsible bowl will help.

Oh, and ample pool time. Doing the doggy paddle best part of summer. In the absence of a pool, kiddie pools and sprinklers can more than do the trick.

Meanwhile, if you find us outside, you’ll find us poolside at TWB.