by Joanna Pompilio

 Summer fun includes the following: less work, more play; tons of barbeques, festivals, carnivals all culminating in dogs and their owners getting out of the house and having a blast together.  Put your dog ahead of the pack with a few etiquette tips.

    - It should come as no surprise that the number one reason festival coordinators do not allow dogs is because no one likes stepping in poop. Be sure Fido relieves himself before entering the festival grounds. Always carry the pooper scooper and the usual clean up necessities: plastic bags and paper towels, in case of emergencies.
    - Check ahead to see if dogs are permitted to attend the outdoor happening you have in mind. Many events that serve food may prohibit dogs as a health code violation. Tickets and fines may be issued to any violators.
    - Make sure your pooch is well-fed before heading out. Grabbing some grub for the dog before leaving the house gives the dog no reason to beg for food from you and especially from other food stand patrons.
    - The national number of dog bites rises in the summer months. If your dog isn’t exactly the Emily Post of Pooches, ask yourself a few questions before heading to a crowded outdoor event. Does he nip folks who get too close? Is he aggressive with other dogs? Does he get nervous in crowds? If you answered honestly, you will know if your dog is truly ready for a crowded outdoor occasion where there is sure to be lots of inquisitive children.
    - Sure your dog looks like a big, cuddly…well dog, to you. But to other folks, he can seem intimidating and frightening. Keep this in mind and always walk him on a leash at outdoor affairs.
    - Fireworks are so cool, but maybe not so much for your dog. Loud noises and all the oohhhs and aahhs from the crowd may freak him out. He may act out by barking or becoming aggressive. Consider this beforehand and to be sympathetic to other two-legged attendees.


A Few Tips

    - The summertime is when lawns and fair grounds get a makeover with fertilizer, insecticides and planting flora – all of which can be toxic to dogs when ingested. Check with the coordinators of the openair event you are arranging to attend, and investigate if the grass is chemically treated.
    - If you see Pooch getting pooped stop and take a rest in shade and give him some water, or take him back home. Never ever leave a dog in a parked car; the temperature in a parked car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes.
    - Outfit your dog with recent dog tags and identification collar. They could be his ticket home should he decide to explore the festivities on his own.
    - Be considerate of your dog’s paws.  Hot cement and blacktop can cause serious burns.  Consider going after the sun goes down when the concrete cools.
    -  Flea and tick collars are also a key part to any pet ensemble when attending outdoor activities.
    -  Older dogs, overweight dogs and dogs with heavy coats can still enjoy summer festivities and the exercise will do them good.  These dogs may enjoy themselves more during the morning hours when the heat and humidity are lower.
    - Did you know dogs get sunburned? Dogs with lightcolored noses or lightcolored fur on their ears are particularly vulnerable to sunburn or skin cancer. Have a chat with your vet about proper skincare during the summer months.