When the weather turns warm, humans aren’t the only ones anxious to enjoy the sunshine. The unusually cold and rainy spring is over and its time to take your best friend out to play.
            The summer heat can be brutal and dogs don’t cool themselves off as well as their human companions. If you’re generous enough to fill a kiddie pool with cool water so they can splash around they will thank you. It will keep the dog hair out of the family pool. And if you just can’t resist the dog may share and let you splash around too.
            After months of short jaunts outside just long enough to relieve themselves dogs will be ecstatic to join you in early morning or evening long strolls around the neighborhood. And if you need a running partner that never lets you cheat on the miles, your local pet store has a wide selection of hands free leashes. Waist models work wonderfully. However, harnesses that distribute weight evenly across your torso are best for preventing accidents if your dogs enthusiasm throws off your balance.
            Here in Utah we’re lucky to be only a short hike away from incredibly beautiful scenery. Although dogs are prohibited or subject to restrictions in national and state parks, there are many great hiking trails a short distance from your front door. Rocky Mouth Trail allows dogs if they remain on leash. The trailhead is 11300 S Wasatch Blvd. Both Millcreek Canyon and City Creek Canyon allow dogs and have off leash areas. Don’t forget to give your pooch a once over when you get home. Even shorthaired breeds can have foxtails and other weeds and debris in their coats. Although it may be a bit of a fight, don’t neglect looking between their toes.
            If you‘re not a hiker or a runner but your dog is a bundle of energy, the Sandy Dog Park (9980 S 300 E) is an acre of fenced off-leash area. The city has plans to improve the park and it already boasts trees, benches, walking trails, and a water fountain. The park has all the expected rules; no females in heat; clean up after your dog; no aggressive animals; all shots must be up to day.  The rules are to ensure the safety of the canine and human visitors. Your dog will make instant friends and come home tired but happy because he got to chase something other than just his own tail.
            If your dog is going to be spending hours out in the sun its important to protect them. Just like you, they can get sunburned. Thirty minutes before heading out apply a zinc-free sunblock to their ears and nose. Be aware of how much time they spend on hot asphalt. Although the skin may be thick on their paws, it can also burn.

Better than Ice Cream Treat
1 cup chicken of beef stock
2-4 small pieces of chicken or beef

Cut meat into 1/2 inch bites and add to stock. Freeze for about 12 hours or until solid. Break it up into chunks and feed to your friend.

PB and and Y… Why? Because you’re Cute
2 cups plain yogurt
3/4 cup unsalted peanut butter
1 Tbs honey