Dear Heloise: It's hot in most parts of the country now, and the temperature inside a car is much hotter than that-it's deadly. What should you do if you come across a dog in a hot car when out and about?
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA.org) has these hints:
1. Snap a picture or write down the license plate and make of the vehicle.
2. Tell the manager of the store or property. Have him page the owner.
3. Wait by the car and check on the dog.
4. When the owner comes out, politely but firmly tell the person about the dangers of leaving a dog in a hot car.
5. If the owner is a no-show, call 911. Let the police assist the dog.
-Mary R. in Indiana
Thanks, Mary. Don't be fooled by a car parked in the shade or with the windows cracked open. Those measures do little to lower the temperature inside the car.-Heloise
Pet Pal
Dear Readers: Meet Isabella. She is smart, gentle, loyal and especially good-looking, mom Lynda C. can report. Isabella spent Memorial Day in the pool in Dayton, Ohio, at a family cookout!
To see Isabella and our other Pet Pals, visit www.Heloise.com and click on "Pet of the Week." Do you have a funny and furry friend? Email a picture and description to HeloiseHeloise.com.-Heloise
Dry-Nosed
Dear Heloise: My dog's nose is dry. What can I do?-Emily J. in Utah
Emily, dogs need a wet and soft nose; it helps them breathe and pick up scents more easily. Look online for any product labeled as "nose butter," or a balm with "snout" in the name. Coconut oil is safe for a dog's nose, but don't use baby oil or medicated ointments.
Dry nose can arise from allergens, sunburn or dehydration. Or when the dog first wakes up, the nose could be dry.
If you observe these symptoms: fever, no energy, vomiting and dry eyes, along with the dry nose, get the dog to the veterinarian ASAP.-Heloise
Ice Baller
Dear Heloise: I fill balloons with water to a tennis ball size, freeze them and fill a kiddie pool with them. Then, in go the drinks: bottles of beer, cans of pop and water bottles. This works well at a barbecue.
When they melt completely, water-balloon fight!
We recycle all bottles and cans, and we dispose of the balloons safely, too: We cut the balloons into small pieces and put them in a bag that is sealed shut. Then we place the bag in the trash.-Edward. L. in Illinois