I was recently made aware of the heat of summer sidewalks and cement on dogs’ paws. I spoke to a handler of a bomb sniffing dog at the ferry. She said on that day it was 84 degrees in Seattle and when they tested the sidewalk it was 112 degrees. She said they put ointment on the dogs paws to protect them.

No time for details, so, after speaking to my vet, here’s the scoop — there’s a product called Musher’s Secret, a wax that is used on paws in extreme temperatures. There are also boots for dogs who walk in difficult terrain, as well as in extreme heat and cold. One company that makes such boots is Ruffwear.

I have no personal experience with these products, but I hope this information helps animals.

Oh, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water yourself and set out dishes of water daily for birds, squirrels and all the little creatures.

— Jo Ann Herbert