By CASPER McMAHON
Guest Columnist
“I care not much for a man’s religion whose dog and cat are not the better for it.” – Abraham Lincoln
Since my human mom (your usual columnist, Sharon) is out of town for a brief (and well-deserved break) time away, I have the honor of preparing this week’s column! I do have some advice for all you who have one or more dogs in your family. (Nothing against cats, but you know how independent they are!) Those of us in the canine group wish we could sometimes effect change which will keep us both healthy and happy! With that in mind, please bear with me while I address some of those issues which pop up in the “good old summertime” here in Indiana! Also, I thought it would make mom Sharon happy to use a quote by her favorite President!
I conferred with Blue, who also lives here (though we disagree on who is the favorite!) and we agree on some specific items which we hope all of you humans consider especially during the hot “dog days” of summer! The statistics and ideas presented here were obtained from the ASPCA and the Humane Society of the United States. Please check with your own veterinarian for more specifics or clarifications.
Recently, in our neighborhood, the streets were paved with black asphalt. Hmmm, try walking on that barefoot … yikes! Although our dog foot pads are pretty tough, they can be burnt by the pavement. If the pavement is too hot for humans to walk barefoot, it is too hot for us! If the air temperature is 77 degrees, the pavement will be at least 125 degrees; if 86 degrees, the pavement will be at least 135 degrees. If you must walk your dog on pavement, choose the early morning hours before the pavement heats up – it would be appreciated!
Please do not leave us in a parked car on a lovely summer day! We love you and yes, we often like our car rides, but we do not enjoy being left in the car. Staying home in the A/C with fresh water and our favorite chew toy – you bet! Remember, when the outside temperature is 79 degrees, the inside of the car will be at least 20 degrees hotter; yes, even though the windows are “cracked!” If you see any of my canine friends in distress call 911 immediately. Officers are trained to rescue dogs (and people!) left alone is dire circumstances. Noblesville and Hamilton County have passed legislation which addresses the legal obligations of pet parents.
“Oh sure, Casper and I get along well,” Blue McMahon said, “but we do disagree over who is Mom and Dad’s favorite.” (Photo provided)
My humans just love to go to outdoor concerts; however, I hear them talking about all the dogs they see at those concerts. I am glad they do not take me or Blue! Humans hear sounds between 20 and 20,000 Hz, and DOGS can hear noises twice as high, even up to 55,000 Hz. So, while you may have some really cool dogs, they really do not want their ears to be assaulted! Please think twice about outdoor concerts, Fourth of July, or any other event where the noise could be unbearable and scary. Dogs can, and do, suffer damage to their ears and hearing just as humans can.
Both Blue and I are “rescues” – adopted by mom Sharon and dad Bruce to live out our lives in safety and comfort, thankfully. I think they would both agree with the concerns I have expressed here, and although we have a great pet sitter, we are looking forward to their homecoming!