Let me ask you a question. As temperatures soar this summer, can you imagine going barefoot on hot concrete wearing a fur coat? No? Then perhaps you should think twice before making your dog do it!
This week has so far seen a heatwave in England, and I have forgotten to bring my shorts! I'm here in the UK to teach the latest group of people wishing to become Dog Listeners. Humidity is high and energy is low - a perfect time for those dog owners who are enlightened - and have taken on board Amichien Bonding Methods - to be thankful that they do not have to take their dogs out for a walk in this heat.
For me, it's not only the sight of poor dog owners (and their dogs) out in rain, hail and thunderstorms with the mistaken belief that they must walk their dogs. If anything it is worse when the temperature is so high. As I have said before, if we humans find ourselves sweating profusely, imagine if we had to go barefoot on the concrete while wearing a fur coat!
A late evening stroll, being happy and in control, can be very enjoyable. But most owners out there don't consider walking the dog a joy, rather a chore that can cause anxiety, fear and misery. Yet they still go out there because they think they have to.
I remember seeing an old lady in France, zimmer frame grasped firmly in hand, slowly making her way down the road in scorching conditions, followed by her three-legged dog. As anyone who has ever had a personal trainer will testify, there is a fine line between exercise and torture......
So if you are feeling the heat right now, think of your four-legged friend too and find some shade. Maybe grab an iced tea while you're at it and don't forget to fill the dog's water bowl.... enjoy the British summer while it lasts!
PS For those of you in the Southern Hemisphere, I will post this blog again in 6 months!
P.P.S After hearing about the tragic story about the two police dogs that died from heat in the back of their handlers car, I just wanted to add this warning that was made by The Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, "the charity would like to remind dog owners that leaving your dog locked in a car can prove fatal, particularly during a heatwave. It can take just 20 minutes for a dog to die and temperatures reach over 40 degrees in some vehicles. Stay Cool - Tony Knight
