Awww, poor guy
A haircut for Duke
The cone of shame
Duke is at the vet as I write this, getting a “summer cut” for the first time ever. He’s been having skin problems (primarily hot spots) because his coat is so thick, moisture gets trapped against his skin. We’ve already taken him to the vet several times; he’s been sedated so the vet could shave the effected area, and put on steroid pills a couple times as well. Needless to say, it’s getting pricey, not to mention unpleasant for Duke.
Given the humidity of the New York area, we decided to get him a buzz cut, despite learning that his coat may never return to its lustrous red-gold state 
We love Duke regardless of what he looks like. Still, I’m a little nervous to see his new look….
Hot Dogs
Today’s forecast: HOT. 
Although Fido may seem perfectly happy playing his usual game of fetch in this weather, it’s probably not a good idea.
I’m not a vet, and can’t claim any medical expertise, but I can direct you to some reliable resources on how to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke – a very serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
In a nutshell, if your dog has to be outdoors in this heat, please keep these tips in mind:
- - Be certain to have plenty of cool water available.
- - NEVER leave your dog in a car. I don’t care if the windows are open. Just don’t do it.
- - Try to stick to shady areas if possible.
The signs of heat exhaustion include intense panting, dry gums, extreme lethargy and disorientation, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect your dog may have heat exhaustion, CALL YOUR VET RIGHT AWAY!
Oh hai. This is Duke.
This is the point at which I subject you, an innocent passerby, to a photo gallery of my Brooklyn pup, and main character of this nascent blog – Duke.
He was born sometime in October of 2004, and I met him about 6 weeks later at the North Shore Animal League on Long Island. Of all the puppies, he was the only one sitting quietly in his cage, just taking it all in. As soon as I picked him up, he stuck his nose under my arm, as if to hide from the noise and activity. That was it. I was in love….
And for those of you who were wondering…yes, there will be many more adorable pictures of Duke in the days and weeks to come! (n.b. if you can’t handle the cuteness, I suggest you go elsewhere)
Take your dog to work day 2010
Woof!
Tomorrow (June 25, 2010) is official Take Your Dog to Work Day! Apparently it’s been around for more than 10 years. I had no idea. But sadly I won’t be able to join in the fun this year because Duke is “vacationing” on Long Island at my parents’ house.
But hopefully some of you lucky readers will get to enjoy the company of your furry friend while you “work” tomorrow 
For more information about TYDTWD, go here.
