First Coast Register June/July 2015 | Page 46

PREPARING FOR THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER by KATE GODFREY The long, sun-drenched days of summer in Northeast Florida mean adventure and outdoor playtime for many dogs and their human counterparts. Northeast Florida has many state parks, trails, beaches and dog friendly restaurants to enjoy. It is important to keep your canine companion’s comfort and safety in mind when venturing outdoors during the hot summer months. It is no great secret that the Florida summer sun is intense for humans, but it can be even more so for dogs. Think about wearing a sweatshirt on a hot midsummer day to get an idea of what it must be like for a dog. Dogs can suffer from heat stroke just like humans. It is important to take precautions to 46 June - July 2015 | First Coast Register