Summer is here!  Long hot days and warm summer nights - isn't this the perfect time to own a pet?  Remember, summer is not always a great friend to our pets if special attention and care is not noted.  Make this summer the best EVER by following these rules:

1. Water, water, and more water - Hydration is the key to good health for your pet, so be sure to have extra bowls of fresh water available. Particularly after a walk or a run, your pet will need more water than normal due to the hot temperatures.

2. Do NOT leave your pet in the car!!!  Leaving your pet in the car on days that you think aren't "too warm" does not equate to safety.  Cars warm up quickly, even in the shade, and even with the windows open - don't take a chance on creating a devastating circumstance.  Your pet prefers to be home in the air conditioning in front of the television, anyway.

3. Throw away uneaten food - Although you may leave wet cat food out or dog food during the day in winter months, summer months and warm weather lead to increased bacteria growth.

4. Stop and smell the roses - just don't eat them!  Many summer bloomers are particularly attractive to the eye, but this is not a good snack choice for your pet. Hibiscus and lilies, for example, are toxic for your pet - so don't take a chance by letting Fifi snack on a flower.

5. Check for fleas and ticks on your pet.  Check with your vet to determine what flea treatment is best for your unique circumstance.  

6. Brush your pet daily.  The easiest way to check for fleas and ticks is while brushing and grooming your pet.  Ticks are particularly hazardous to your pet so keep a close eye to your pet's fur and skin.

7. Take walks in the morning, or early evening.  It's cooler during those times and will help your dog enjoy the walk rather than overheating.

8. Keep your pets out of the sun as much as possible.  Pets are more prone to skin cancer than you may have thought.

Why do they do that?  We all ask ourselves this question from time to time.  here are some common dog myths de-bunked:

• Dogs hate to be crated:  Dogs are natural den dwellers.  When properly trained, most dogs love their crates and find them peaceful and comforting.
• Chew toys encourage dogs to chew on EVERYTHING:  A little training easily helps your pet distinguish their toys from forbidden objects.  Chewing is a natural behavior and a great outlet for a lonely or bored dog.   
• Dogs can't be trained out of digging and destroying the yard:  Not so!  Try this as an alternative.  If you have a persistent digger, consider providing them with a sandpit with buried rewards.  Your dog will love it!
• Clean dogs deliberately roll around in smelly stuff:  Unfortunately, yes.  The stinky stuff gives them information about the animal that left it behind.  Dogs also have millions more scent receptors than we do, so what we think of as a tremendous stick may be delightful to your pet. 

The Paragon School of Pet Grooming is proud to have you as a valued client.  Our full service grooming is provided by talented and caring men and women who are dedicating themselves to learning the art and science of pet styling. 

Our students come from all walks of life, near and far.  Some juggle work and family schedules in addition to their studies at Paragon.  Every student is educated and tested both in class work and practical application of their grooming skills.