Summer is the time to enjoy beaches, picnics and outdoor sports with your pooch but the heat wave may

also bring hazards to your dog. Dogs are even more susceptible to heat because they cannot cool themselves as effectively as humans; sweating only from their paws and panting to reduce their body temperature. Why not try out these canine cooling tips:

1. Always have cool water available to drink and do not assume that water-filled creeks will be available along a forest dog walk or downtown stores will have canine water dishes. Always carry a water bottle and at least a collapsible bowl that you may fill up at local water fountains, public washrooms or cafes. If your hands are full, have your dog wear ......

I can't even begin to express the thrill I had this past weekend. It all started when our Nanaimo DOGSAFE Host, Robyn Andexser, was recently at my house and raving about the "best dog book she had ever read". When anybody describes a book like that, I just KNOW they are talking about Merle's Door. Yes, it is THAT good. And yes, Robyn had just finished reading it. Merle's Door is the most educational, funniest and heart-warming story about the human-dog bond that I have ever read. If you have not already read the book, check out the website www.tedkerasote.com and run to Chapters/Indigo right now. In fact, buy two and give one to your favorite dog person.

Okay, so after Robyn and I reminisced about Merle, Robyn ......