JIM SINCLAIR/Independent editor
The plight of the family pooch is a concern of too few people. You could call it a pet-peeve – the way all too many dogs are included in their masters’ and mistresses’ every activity.
Sure, it’s a given that people like their dogs and want them along for the ride. It’s also a given that the dog will choose (if they have a pulse) to be included in whatever’s going on. But it wouldn’t hurt to attach a condition or two to the canine travel agenda, specifically – whether they’ll they be safe, and comfortable.
This is an issue that’s been around forever, but, just like any number of golden rules, it bears repeating: dogs, noise and heat don’t mix.
Hyper-sensitive hearing, heavy coats and limited cooling ability can quickly turn the most wholesome occasion into a nightmare for a dog.
Case in point - July 1 at West Stettler Park. The place was full of dogs and, granted, some probably don’t have a serious problem with fireworks. But some, maybe lots, sure do.
One aging golden retriever was obviously agitated well before the mini-explosions began. It could have had something to do with the amplified music. As for all the other dogs, who knows? Many dogs just plain panic with the first boom.
Next year, why not consider leaving the pets at home, and not just on Canada Day. How about whenever you’re planning on taking in a public event that could to be hot and crowded.
Think about it… will you actually have less fun without the dog at your side? Will they be worse off having stayed at home?
One more issue comes to mind and it should go without saying. It relates to loose dogs in the back of trucks and dogs doing a fast-fry in a parked car.
If they’re really our best friends let’s please treat them like it.