TIPS: A Bit of Doggie Wisdom

Hello everyone, this is Choco again, your neighborhood lab!

I'm pretty excited that summer has finally arrived, despite those annoying buzzing insects humans refer to as "Cicadas" (who seem to have no sense of navigation whatsoever, because they keep bumping into me!). I guess they'll be gone soon, and life will return to normal.

Meanwhile, I'd like to kick off the summer season by offering dog owners a bit of my doggie wisdom!

Everyone knows that dogs think summer is the best season, because generally summertime is a good opportunity for dogs to do lots of outdoor things with our owners, visit new places and meet other doggies. However, here are some general pointers that may help all dogs and dog owners have a great time and be safe at the same time:

• Remember that hot or harsh surfaces can be pretty hard on our paws! Please try to be mindful of that and keep us away from the hot pavement as much as possible.

• Remember that dogs may need water and rest more frequently than humans (especially "senior" doggies like me!). Carrying a doggie water bottle is a good idea, particularly if you'll be out for an extended period of time.

• Safety is important, so it's a good idea to keep doggies on a leash at all times. Even the best-trained dogs can get excited in a large crowd or at the sight of a bird or a squirrel and decide to chase after it, which can cause dogs to get hurt. A doggie leash also shows respect for other adults or children who may be afraid of dogs.

Well, that's all I got for today folks! I think I hear Darrian coming in, which means it's time for me to eat! Talk to you soon. §