COMBATING SUMMERTIME BLUES

Who said, "There Ain't no cure for the Summertime Blues"?

I believe it was a hit song by the late Eddie Cochran. Though I'll have to admit, I have no cure, only suggestions and information.

No school, warm days, summer vacation and outdoor barbecues.

The Canine Companion Training Club is no exception. We took to the park for some of that summertime fun.

We were especially pleased to have as our guest patrolman Kevin Harris, canine handler with the Jackson Police Department canine unit.

Harris brought his protector and fellow officer, Stadt, a German shepherd. Stadt was acquired by donations from our community. Stadt is a German name meaning "community."

Stadt is trained for handler protection, prisoner apprehension, tracking for lost people, narcotic detection and building searches. Stadt has been in training for six years and is 7 1/2 years "young." Although a working dog, he is Harris' best friend. Officers and canine partners form a bond between them lasting a lifetime. Trust and respect and, of course, love for each other. What does Stadt do when off duty? Anything he wants!

We were entertained and educated by officer Harris and Stadt. Harris gave us a working demonstration of Stadt's qualifications. We were more than impressed. Stadt's credentials are impeccable. Harris has been in law enforcement for 11 years. It would be difficult to find a more motivated team.

Canine Companion Training Club is delighted to present "Stadt" and Harris with a donation of $600 for Stadt's bulletproof vest. We salute patrolman Harris and Stadt for their exceptional community work and as law enforcement officers.

Back to those summertime blues. I have gathered a short menu of advice and options to help you avoid the hazards of the heat and keep you and your pet happy and healthy during the coming days of summer.

Summertime tips

* Never leave your dog in a car. Your car can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit in minutes, even on a cool day. Cool your dog with tepid water; do not use cold water.

* Your dog's normal body temperature ranges between 100 and 102.5 degrees. When body temperature rises above 106 degrees Fahrenheit, it is a serious condition requiring intervention and medical treatment. Applying cold packs to the back of the neck, misting your dog's paws with isopropyl rubbing alcohol 70 percent USP can help. See your veterinarian immediately.

* Limit vigorous exercise to early morning and after sunset or eliminate long walks and jogs until the weather cools. In the heat of midday, keep your dog indoors, either in air conditioning or a well-ventilated area.

* Protect your dog's feet. Prolonged running on hot pavement can result in severe burns to the bottom of the pads.

* Keep your pet away from antifreeze. As summer approaches, many people change their antifreeze and water mixture. Antifreeze tastes sweet to pets and is highly toxic!

* With a little extra caution, summertime can be a pleasurable time of year for both you and your dog .