Dog Day Afternoon

[Alex Belisle]

Some photos of dogs cavorting in Lake Erie on a hot summer afternoon = pure joy!

http://lakewoodobserver.com/photoblogs/ ... -afternoon

[Amy Martin]

Speaking of dogs - I IMPLORE anyone who is going to the Arts Festival this weekend to keep their pets at home. Years ago, dogs were not permitted at the Festival, but owners complained and the planners acquiesced. So, for the past 7 years or so, we have watched uncontrolled puppies jump up on unsuspecting people and children, dogs panting like crazy with no water, and owners paying more attention to the sights and sounds of the festival than their own pets. I find this troubling. The temperature on that hot asphalt gets over 100 degrees, and dogs sweat through their foot pads, making them more susceptible to heat stroke. About 5 years ago, we witnessed just that scenario take place at the Clifton Arts Fest, with a golden retriever who ended up dying on the middle of Clifton due to the extreme heat.

As a lover of and proud owner of 2 dogs, I beg those so inclined to please leave their dogs at home on Saturday. The Arts Festival is not enjoyable to them.