Pictured Topo and Bowie________
Do people become more idiotic in the warmer temperatures? I ask this because we just came back from a walk and there was a car parked on Clark Street with a small dog in it. It is about 80 degrees today. Both windows were open about half an inch. Would you sit in a car like that? I doubt it. How long do you think it takes for a small dog to get heatstroke and die? Well, I looked it up and it is only 15 minutes!
I read that on a 78-degree day, the temperature in a SHADED car is 90 degrees and a car parked in the sun can reach 160 degrees in minutes. An animal can get heatstroke in 15 minutes. So, please, do not leave your dog or cat in the car in this weather, even for a couple of minutes. In fact, we don't even have the dogs out in the yard for long periods of time when it is extremely hot. Their little bodies get overheated easily.
Just for the record, here are the signs of heatstroke: restlessness, excessive thirst, heavy panting, lethargy, lack of appetite, dark tongue, rapid heartbeat, fever, vomiting and/or lack of coordination. If you see these symptoms, call the vet immediately, give your pet some water and immerse him/her in lukewarm water.
Now for the results of the Andersonville pet contest! I know you all have been on pins and needles waiting to hear how Topo and Bowie did and what they wore. I am happy to report that they upheld their title as Best Costumed Pets with their rendition of Bonnie and Clyde! OK, so there were only three other contestants—but they are still the winners! Already, the ideas for next year's costumes are flying around; Bowie is begging for nothing that requires a hat and Topo says, 'Bring it on!' Here's a pic of the winners: bonnie & clyde.
Some cool things to do with your dog:
Canine Cruise to benefit the Anti-Cruelty Society
Thurs., June 29, 7-9 p.m.
Join Mercury, Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline in opening the 2006 Canine Cruise season with a 90-minute river and lakefront cruise! Boarding begins at 7 p.m. at the corner of Michigan Ave. and Wacker Drive. Tickets are $35 per person, with or without a dog—and it's one dog per person. For tickets, call 312-644-8338, ext. 307. ( Note: Mercury also has its regular canine cruise every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. from July 9-Sept. 24; 312-332-1353 )
Paws Chicago's Beach Party
Wed., July 12, 6–10 p.m.; www.pawschicago.org
You and your pooch are invited to boogie on the beach. There will be dancing, cocktails, dinner buffet and a silent auction.
