Critters
by Debra Bell
Special to the Weekly
Summertime fun is coming your way and with it comes opportunities to get outside with your pup at myriad events and festivals. Lots of festivals in Maine are pet-friendly and even pet-oriented. And it can be fun to take your favorite furry friend with you into public and show her off.
And sometimes it isn’t fun at all.
I love my greyhound Laura. She’s an amazing dog — crazy, inquisitive and goofy. People love her and she loves people.
However, she doesn’t enjoy big events, especially those with dogs. She gets stressed out, snaps at other dogs and is generally a manic mess. That heightened, excited state leaves her overwhelmed for days.
I used to try to take her to events, and even though she and I have been through training classes, all that training flies out the window when it comes to being around other dogs and people. At one festival in particular she almost dislocated my shoulder in her quest to greet people and dogs. Not only was it not safe for either of us, it was not pleasant for those around us.
There are lots of dogs just like Laura. They’re great dogs. They’re just not great in large groups with too much to see and sniff.
Here are four things your should consider before taking your dog to a festival:
• She gets overwhelmed easily. Some pups are just homebodies. If she gets overwhelmed too easily or gets snippy, the event might not be the right place for her. Always keep her on leash so that if you have to make a quick escape, you can. Make sure she gets her space and take time outs if necessary.
Likewise, require that people respect your pup’s space and that they ask permission before greeting your pup or allowing their dog to greet. Avoid dog face-to-face greetings and watch your dog’s body language.
• You can’t devote your time to watching pup. When I attend a dog-oriented festival, I’m usually working it. That means I can’t keep an eye on Laura. And because she’s such a social butterfly, she needs attention. If you cannot devote time to watch your pup and make sure she’s safe, leave her at home.
If you really want her to be part of your day, bring someone along who can watch pup while you do your thing. A second set of eyes is always helpful.
• It’s too hot. When summer heat hits, hitting the pavement at a festival can be uncomfortable for pooch. Paws can burn easily and become very painful. Short-muzzled-flat-faced dogs (brachycephalic dogs) have a harder time with heat, as well, and will be happier at home.
If you choose to take pup out, go early in the morning or in the late afternoon when it’s cooler. Pay attention to your dog as you’re out and about. Always carry water and find shade often.
Signs of distress include excessive panting and-or drooling, increased heart rate, trouble breathing, disorientation, stumbling or poor coordination, diarrhea or vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness, seizure and respiratory arrest.
• Pup isn’t welcome. Some festivals do not allow dogs on the premises, aside from service dogs. If the festival doesn’t allow dogs, respect the signs and don’t smuggle her in. There’s always a reason for the rules.
Likewise, it is never appropriate to leave pup in the car while you go and enjoy the festival. Cars heat up very quickly (even with the windows cracked). Don’t believe me? Check out the heat info at redrover.org/mydogiscool.
Respect your dog, other’s dogs and safety, and you’ll have a successful summer of fun.
Debra Bell is a freelance writer and graphic designer and is the owner of Bell’s Furry Friends Photography, a division of Bell Imaging & Design LLC. She and her husband Bill are owned by a Maine coon cat named Olivia and a greyhound named Laura. Learn more about her work at bffpetphotos.com.