Being a pet owner is pretty much a part of Boulder culture. From pet-friendly hiking trails and multiple dog parks, there’s always a place for you and Fido to head.
But it’s hot outside. Dang hot. As a fellow owner of two furry canine friends, I wanted to pass on some reminders for my fellow Boulder pet owners as it heats up. You can keep your buddies from losing their cool.
Dogs in cars: Of course your dogs go everywhere with you. So do mine! But think twice this summer before making that extra stop on the way home. Did you know that on a 78 degree day, the temperature inside your car can be over 100 degrees (and as high as 120)? WOWSERS. If you love your pups like I love my pups, it’s worth the extra time to bring them home to climate-controlled shelter nd then head back out to run your errands.
Dog bowls in summer: Those metal bowls filled with water at the dogs parks — ever wonder why your dog won’t drink out of them? Well, the answer is as simple as dipping your finger in the water. WARM, isn’t it? Metal bowls are fine for inside your home, but outdoor environments need a synthetic bowl to keep water a drinkable temparature for pups. Maybe bring a big one with you the next time you head to the dog park.
Dogs around town: Don’t forget that pups aren’t allowed on the four blocks of the pedestrian Pearl Street Mall (unless your pup is a service animal).
Dogs off leash: I know you want your pup to run free and off-leash. You have a well-behaved pup! But leash laws in Boulder are designed to protect your dog, not reign him in. Dogs are only allowed off-leash in designated green tag off-leash areas, which are primarily in the trails surrounding Boulder (and never on city bike and pedestrian paths). This doesn’t mean residential sidewalks, neighborhood parks, or other areas close to your home unless it’s explicitly posted that the area is designated off-leash. Here’s a link to the off-leash regulations for Boulder.
