Summertime Blues

Dear Sophie,

Well, here we go again. Yesterday was our first triple-digit day here in Phoenix at 105 degrees. Today it was 110. And we have about six or seven more months of this to look forward to. (sigh) It prompted a discussion among some fellow service dog owners as to what we should be packing around for our dogs when away from home. So now is as good a time as any to go over your pack: bottle of water ... portable water dish ... 4-foot leash ... belt-style retractable leash ... pick-up bags & paper towels ... spray bottle of neutralizer ... first aid kit which includes a cloth muzzle, two benadryl capsules, two gauze pads, and a length of elastic bandage. Oh, I almost forgot the most important thing, a fully-loaded treat bag! In the summertime, we add your pink boots, and maybe a hat someday if we can find one, assuming you'd wear it if we could.

Sophie, I know you hate them, but your boots are the most important addition to your wardrobe. The streets outside get up over 160 degrees which could blister your paws if they're not protected. Hang in there, sweetie. December's coming!