We hope you are all staying cool in this hot and steamy weather. And we can’t stress enough the importance of being careful when leaving your pets out in the heat for any amount of time. The temperatures that we are experiencing this week are downright dangerous, not only for your pet, but for you as well.
To keep them safe, ensure they have constant access to fresh, cool water and shade. They should avoid overexertion, especially during peak heat hours. Please, if possible, stay inside, and never, ever leave your pets in an unattended closed vehicle. Common sense will keep you and your furry friend safe.
I was looking through my Planet Dog “Doglopedia” the other night and came across these guidelines that are shared among humane societies and dog lovers, I read through it a couple of times and decided that I would share it with all of you.
1 — Remember that my life is likely to last ten to fifteen years and that any separation from you will be painful for me.
2 — Give me time to understand what you want from me.
3 — Place your trust in me. It is crucial to my well-being that you rely on me as I know I can rely on you.
4 — Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, and your entertainment. I have only you.
5 — Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I understand what the sound of your voice means when you speak to me.
6 — Be aware that however you treat me, I’ll never forget it.
7 — Before you hit me, remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.
8 — Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something may be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, or I’ve been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak.
9 — Take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.
10 — Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say “I can’t bear to watch it” or “Let it happen without me.” Everything is easier for me if you’re there. Remember that I love you.
This was something I had never read before, and being a dog lover, it will be something I will remember and read often.
My favorite quote is one by Sidonie Gabrielle Colette and kind of goes along with this: “Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet.”
If you are looking for that furry friend, come visit us at the Central Aroostook Humane Society at 210 Cross St., Presque Isle. We have some wonderful, loving animals looking for a family to call their own.
We are open Tuesdays from 12 to 4 p.m., and Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closing for lunch from 12 to 12:30 p.m.
Please be responsible pet owners: spay and neuter your pets.
Gail Wieder is a board member of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
