Shelter Stories: Dogs & Summer

Posed photo. While the model appeared sad, he was just lamenting having to get out of the vehicle.

By Kristie Bulger
 
"The love of a dog is a pure thing. He gives you a trust which is total. You must not betray it." – Michel Houellebecq, French author
 
Almost every single dog lover wants to take their dog along on all of their adventures. And almost every single dog thinks running to the grocery store is a grand adventure. How can a person ignore the happy dance or whining that happens while they’re getting ready to walk out the door? Dogs don’t care if it’s just an hour in the car, waiting for their owner to come back. All your dog knows is that they got to “Go!” But….here’s the part where I rain on the parade.

​Summertime is not the time to take your dog with you in your vehicle. Every summer, dogs left in cars die from heatstroke. Their owners would never intentionally harm their dogs. Most owners think that their dog will be ok if they leave a window partially open or park in the shade or hurry up in the store. But even at just 70* outside, the temperature in your car can rise to over 90* in just 10 minutes. Don’t take the chance with your beloved pet. If it’s too hot for your child to be left in your car, then it’s too hot for your dog. I know it’s not easy to do but sometimes it’s best to leave your dog home….even if it makes both of you sad.

And while I’m raining on parades, I’d like to mention summer holiday parties, especially fireworks. Summer is the best time to have get-togethers with family and friends. But remember what's considered fun by people, may not be considered fun by pets. Fireworks are especially scary and a frightened dog can bolt through a fence or window or gate. Keep your dogs safe by keeping them at home whenever fireworks are a possibility.

So now I’m done preaching and just want to say I hope everyone and their pets have the Best Summer Ever!!!!
 
Here’s a link to our FB page "Friends of Newaygo County Shelter” where you can see all our available animals:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/979050632140887
 The adoption fee for dogs is $90.
This fee includes spay/neuter, deworming, heartworm test, rabies & DHLPP shots, flea & tick treatment and license.
The adoption fee for cats is $65 
This fee includes spay/neuter, rabies vaccine, feline distemper combo vaccine, FIV/FELV testing, deworming and flea/tick treatment.
Newaygo County Animal Shelter
78 N. Webster
White Cloud, MI 49349
231-689-1867
Monday - Friday 11-1​
Appointments welcome and available

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