By Raymond Remi Rheault

Photo by Mike Baird

I really think that getting the dog out for a run is important and I do my best to get her out all year long. Of course, there are inconveniences no matter what season it is. In the winter it’s wet paws on the back seat of the car, but even wet paws are better than the mud soaked ones that comes with fall or spring! In the summer my problem isn’t really dirt so much as the heat.

Dogs need a lot of water, and if they get a lot of exercise they need much more. Have you ever thought about how you would feel if you ran as much as your dog? I’d be pretty near dead, I’m sure. It’s amazing really, the amount of effort they put into it. A dog needs almost an ounce of water for every pound on their body. Depending on the season, this can be tricky.

In the winter it’s as simple as letting your dog eat snow. He or she will want to, so there’s no encouragement required. Still, bring a bottle of water and keep it warm if possible. In the spring and fall, depending on where you are, there are usually lots of places to find running water or newly formed mega-puddles. It’s important to be aware that near major roads there can be unknown toxins in puddles, so try to keep your dog away. Find a lake or stream.

In the summer, bring a dog water dish in the car with you and go for a nice long ride with the windows down after you take your dog for a run. They’ll appreciate the cool wind. Be careful with your choice of water dish though, as it’s easy to spill in the car when you’re making corners (or if your dog is a messy drinker) and spills can lead to unpleasant odours and ruined upholstery.