THUNDER BAY – Bark Central – Woof, woof! It’s your pal Behzhig the Intrepid German Shepherd, reporting in before the long weekend starts!
We four legged canines are enjoying some really hot and humid days, and the long weekend forecast looks for sun and heat too.
While you humans are packing up for cottages, BBQs, and big road trips, I’m here to remind you that we four-legged family members need a little extra TLC when the summer heat kicks in.
Of course that also includes your feline fur chaser.
I just sniffed out a tail-wagging important message from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society – they’re barking up the right tree with their #NoHotPets campaign!
So before you throw that cooler in the car, read my paws-itively essential safety tips. Because no one wants a weekend full of panting, paw-burns, or bellyaches. Right? Right! Totally ten barks worth!
🐾 Behzhig’s Long Weekend Survival Tips for Pups (and Their People):
Road Trippin’?
If you wouldn’t sit in a hot metal box wearing a fur coat, neither should I. Never leave us in the car – even for a “quick second.” Parked cars turn into ovens, fast! Either plan pup-friendly pit stops or leave us in the cozy house with a fan and a bone.
Camping like a champ?
Tie me up? Sure. Leave me alone in a tent or camper? Nope. Keep me leashed, give me plenty of water and shade, and remember: some of us dogs are born sniffari explorers. So keep those paws close!
Boating fun?
Lifejacket, please! I may swim like a beaver, but safety first. Don’t forget to pack my water bowl and shady spot. If the boat’s got no shade, I’d rather stay back with Grandma on the dock.
Backyard BBQs?
I smell steak and sausages, but paws off! Onions, grapes, and especially anything with alcohol = bad news for pups. Keep me away from the grill, and give me a quiet, shady spot with my own treats.
Cottage vibes?
Chip me. Tag me. Watch me. Water can be tricky (and cold!), so always supervise. Set me up with a cool shady nap spot and I’ll be the chillest cottage guest you ever had.
Join Me – Pledge to Be a No Hot Pets Hero!
Visit nohotpets.ca and take the pledge to keep pups like me safe. You could even win a YETI summer prize pack (I don’t know what that is, but it sounds cool… literally). Plus, you’ll get a toolkit of tips and signs to help spread the word!
If you ever see a buddy in distress – maybe locked in a hot car or tied out too long in the sun – speak up! Call 1-833-9ANIMAL, your local police, or in a true emergency, dial 911.
So let’s make this long weekend one for the bark-books! Keep it safe, keep it cool, and don’t forget us furballs when you’re planning the fun.
Tail wags and paw high-fives, and lots of barks from the Burley Bark Ranger!
Behzhig 🐾
Your Loyal Long Weekend Watchdog
