Tongue Depressed

Dear Dog Lady,

This is not so much a question but a plea. Now that the hot summer weather is upon us, can you please remind people that dogs do not sweat and need to keep hydrated? I see so many dogs who have been subjected to a run with their owner (poor things) on my daily walks and the poor dog's tongues are lolling around out the sides of their mouths, practically hanging out to their chests. It makes me feel really angry at the owner and sad for the dog. Would it be acceptable to also say something to the owners?

Kristi, Boston, MA

Kristi, time for a true confession: When Dog Lady's dog runs hard and his tongue lolls out the side of his mouth, I pat myself on the back for tiring him out. And, of course, I give him a drink of water afterward. Canine tongues hanging out of mouths do not necessarily mean the dogs are suffering. It usually means the dogs have gotten a work-out and, after slurping at the water bowl, will sleep contentedly – ah, a good thing.

You are very sensitive to these doggies with drooping tongues, but, please understand, they do not mind their owners bringing them along on a run. Dogs need the exercise while jogging owners like the canine company. As far as Dog Lady is concerned, this is not a cause for anger, sadness, or pity on your part.

Kristi, please don’t become a tongue lasher and scold dog keepers running with their sidekicks. It’s none of your business. If you feel you must get your licks in, you could always carry a big water bottle and offer free drinks.

Posted by Dog Lady at July 25, 2005 10:25 AM