The Ruff Report: Simple ways to keep pets comfy in hot weather

Pet parents can take some simple actions to help their dogs better cope with hot weather, an animal welfare official says.

Careful planning of outdoor activities, such as walks and hikes, and proper grooming can go a long way toward keeping your dog comfortable in hot weather, says Gail Furtado, president of Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River, Mass.

The Hunt of Her Life: A book about a rescue dog that will touch your hear

"Either go for walks early morning or later evening when it is cooler, Ms. Furtado told MySetterSam.com in an interview. "Swimming is a good summer day activity, as long as your dog knows how to swim (not all dogs know how to swim)."

The Ruff Report: For dogs, heat stroke really is no sweat

A sunny summer day may seem perfect to you for a walk in the park or along a sandy beach, but these kinds of seemingly delightful days can be quickly turn into a death trap for playful dogs, a leading animal welfare agency warns.

The Hunt of Her Life: A book about a rescue dog that will touch your hear

Even short walks along hot pavement, attending outdoor events and sitting inside automobiles - even with windows open - can quickly lead to deadly heat stroke for dogs, who are especially susceptible to it because they lack sweat glands and can only pant to cool down, according to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The Ruff Report: This injury risk to dogs just keeps booming

Many pet parents underestimate the danger of this common seasonal occurrence, but it puts many dogs at a much higher risk of serious injury and can even cause your dog to run away from home.

The Hunt of Her Life: A book about a rescue dog that will touch your hear
 

This act of Mother Nature that occurs during warm weather is particularly insidious because your dog usually knows when it is going to occur long before you do, which causes great anxiety for your companion that will soon turn into full-blown fear and panic.

The Hunt of Her Life: A book about a rescue dog that will touch your heart

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Living Well with Your Dog: A series of short stories

Want a better life with your dog? MySetterSam.com's Living Well With Your Dog, a series of short stories for pet owners, is loaded with common-sense ideas to help make  life more fun, enjoyable and healthy for you and your dog. Find great tips about subjects such as: creating a comfortable lifestyle for you and your dog; making your home and environment safe; improving your pet's health and nutrition; choosing a pet sitter and veterinarian; and saving money on dog food, pet products, prescription drugs and pet insurance.