DEAR PET TALK: What are the Dog Days of summer? – Dog Mama
DEAR DOG MAMA: We are having them now in August. “Dog Days” have their origin in Homeric-era Greece (900 years BCE). Ancient Greek-speaking astronomers noted that Sirius, which is a star in the “Canis Major” (dog) constellation is visible at this time of year. Sirius is part of Orion the Hunter, a constellation which coincides with late summer and which continues through the colder months. Later, the Romans believed that Sirius added extra heat to the sun, because of its brightness.
Most folks think “Dog Days” are when your dog is exhausted by the heat, and lies on the floor panting! But this is also a good time to schedule vet and groomer visits and make sure you’re taking care of your pup, especially if you’ve noticed your dog panting more than usual.
Some dogs develop “hot spots” in summer. These are also known as “acute moist dermatitis” and are patches of skin which get inflamed and may get infected. When moisture is trapped against a dog’s skin, this condition could result. How do you prevent it? Dry your dog thoroughly after a swim or rain storm.
Other summer woes for canines include the parade of parasites that thrive in warm weather. My husband always checks Sarju, our dog for ticks after a woods’ walk and she gets a monthly flea treatment also. And some dogs actually get allergies. If your pup is scratching their face they may be reacting to canine allergens, which can include mold, dust, or chemicals used in gardens or agriculture. How to prevent this? Be watchful of insects when you’re outside, and mindful of environmental conditions.
Yes, dogs can suffer from the same ailments that bedevil humans, including sunburn. Does your dog have light-colored fur or short hair (as many bully breeds and mixes may)? They may need sunscreen if you are venturing out of doors, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun is at its peak. How to prevent? Keep your dog out of direct sunlight as much as possible, and speak to your vet or dog groomer about the appropriate product to use on your dog.
And it’s still summer, so sidewalks and streets can hold heat. As much as your dog wants to walk with you, do a “palm test” on hard surfaces first if you are walking on a hot day.
Finally – in my world, every day is a “dog day” and I imagine it’s the same for you! Thanks this week to wellgroomedpets.com.
Sally Cragin is the director of Be PAWSitive: Therapy Pets and Community Education. Email questions to: bepawsitive01420@gmail.com
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