At Look Local, we are honoured to work every day with small business owners and entrepreneurs in our community. We know that the people behind these businesses have taken risks and made sacrifices to follow a dream and their passion. Their stories are interesting and inspiring and we wanted to share them with you, our readers. We hope you enjoy the first few profiles in this issue. We plan to make this a regular feature in Look Local, so look out for additional small business stories in the future!
I purchased my first original oil painting about 20 years ago. I felt equal parts sophisticated and reckless at the time. The act of confidently selecting and buying an original seemed a sophisticated step into refined living, but the impulsive extravagance of the act was at odds with my uber-practical side.
I clearly found a way to reconcile the two and was soon emboldened to collect more originals over the years that followed – from a local art show, a door-to-door salesperson, eBay (yes, eBay), an outdoor market in Hong Kong and a local art gallery, to name a few. While there are infinite ways to analyze, judge and value a work of art, for me, it all came down to one simple determinant: did it bring me joy when I looked at it?
Once I’d accepted the notion that art is whatever you decide it to be, any limitations on how or where I should source my next work of art evaporated. For non-aficionados of art like me, this is the essence of appreciating art.
Selecting a piece of art is subjective, says Claudia Pettigrew, director of Summer & Grace Gallery in downtown Oakville. “Most people think they either like or don’t like a work of art. They can see the value in it, or not.” In other words, you’re free to enjoy art any way you wish, and you don’t need to be in the market to buy an original to frequent your local art gallery.
In fact, Pettigrew encourages everyone to come to the gallery as often as possible. “Nine times out of 10 times they don’t buy anything, but it plants a seed,” she says. Over time, you naturally build a preference or “taste” for what you like and when it’s time to start collecting, you’ll be ready.
In the age of home décor savvy and matching colour palettes, it may seem counter-intuitive to leave such concerns out when selecting artwork for your space. “I tend to say if you love a piece and you love an artist, it will fit anywhere,” says Pettigrew. If you do plan to add an original to your home, think about making space for the art, rather than finding art to match the space. You can always buy a throw pillow or blanket to help tie in the colours of your room.
If you’re already a collector of art, want to develop a personal taste for it, or simply enjoy looking at local art, Oakville and Burlington are home to many art galleries and museums. Drop in while you’re out and about, or grab a friend and lead your own art tour one cold November afternoon. You can also plan ahead by checking their websites for upcoming exhibitions.
Oakville Galleries This not-for-profit contemporary art museum has two locations: Centennial Square (next to the Oakville Public Library’s Central branch), and Gairloch Gardens (in a lakeside mansion and park). It has over 1,100 works of art in its collection , most are in storage or on loan – and includes works in painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, film and other media. The current exhibition at Centennial Square is called Leisure; Gairloch Gardens presents Eviction Notice. oakvillegalleries.com
Summer & Grace Gallery This bright gallery space in downtown Oakville represents emerging and established Canadian artists. It boasts two floors of original works with new artists and exhibitions added regularly. November 24 to December 24 is Joy II: Holiday Small Show, featuring works sized 16”x16″ or smaller, with every piece priced at $600 or less. summergracegallery.com
Towne Square Gallery Located in downtown Oakville’s Towne Square, it has an exceptional collection of original works of art by Canadian and international artists. Regular exhibitions highlight artists in a friendly atmosphere on two floors of a modern interior to make buying art enjoyable and an enlightening experience. Currently featuring an exhibition by Susanne Wallis, Land | Water | Sky. townesquaregallery.com
Native Art Gallery Also located in Towne Square, the gallery promotes and sells artwork by Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. It has a collection of authentic Canadian sculpture, prints, wall hangings and more produced by Inuit and First Nations’ artists. The gallery believes Indigenous Canadian art inherently conveys the natural wonder and rich history of Canada through the beauty of the animals, spirits and legends represented through their work. nativeartgallery.ca
ARTSPACE This contemporary art gallery is housed in a century home in downtown Oakville. An unintimidating gallery, it welcomes both the first-time art buyer, as well as the veteran collector, offering assistance, guidance and inspiration in building your collection. @ARTSPACEOakville
Prometheus Art Gallery This international private gallery in downtown Oakville focuses on contemporary art, especially print making and mixed media. As a trusted partner of collectors and art lovers, it is committed to building a bridge between the public and artists, striving to provide a better stage for more young artists to express themselves. prometheusgallery.net
Rumi Galleries Located in Kerr Village (and Toronto), the gallery’s focus is Canadian, American and British artists of the 20th century and contemporary artists of different generations. By appointment only. rumigalleries.com
NESAART This studio/gallery in Burlington is housed in the artist’s home where customers can visit by booking an appointment. His work is contemporary abstract landscape and cityscape paintings with extended treatment of textural surfaces. NesAart.com
Newly opened in Downtown Burlington, Sandwich Station prides itself on being the premier destination for fresh wraps and submarine sandwiches in the area. They take great pride in serving customers with the finest ingredients, carefully crafted into mouth-watering creations that will satisfy your cravings.
The team at Sandwich Station use the freshest locally-sourced produce, premium deli meats and bread to ensure that every bite is a flavourful experience. They put their passion for food into every creation, and offer a wide range of options to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.
With the success of their pubs in North Burlington and West Oakville, expanding to a new location on Brant Street in Downtown Burlington seemed a natural fit. You can expect to find delicious classic pub grub served with flair, their famous chicken wings, or choose to build your own burger! The drinks menu is as interesting as the food, with a great selection of brews on tap, plus some wicked looking cocktails and martinis.
The fun doesn’t end there at Blk Swan. Ther is live music on Friday and Saturday nights, trivia night on Wednesdays, and live music plus $6 caesars on the patio all afternoon on Sundays!
This family-owned business is excited to expand from their existing store in Bloor West Village to Downtown Oakville. They offer well-crafted children’s footwear that not only aims to meet every parent’s expectations, but also provides every growing child with an opportunity to express themselves. Quality is the driving force behind what makes their store different, with brands that are manufactured ethically while providing the best possible materials and construction for our children.
The new store is sure to make an impact on Lakeshore Road – including a new permanent indoor ball pit! The owners invite parents to come and explore socially-conscious European footwear styles with foot development education at the forefront.
Maison Apothecare has announced the opening of their newly designed shop at the front of their manufacturing facility. Maison Apothecare is a plant-based manufacturer of skincare and cleaning products, founded by Natacha Rey in 2010. With their products getting shipped all over the world, Maison Apothecare is a hidden gem filled with healthy products for the whole family, making it the perfect gift destination for everyone on your list.
One of their customers says it best: “Visiting Maison Apothecare is like stepping into a little shop in Paris, delighting all the senses. It smells incredible and there’s so much to look at. When driving through Oakville we always make a point of stopping in to stock up on our favourites!”
This holiday season, be sure to check out Maison Apothecare’s new botanical immersive experience, with sampling and smelling stations throughout the shop.
Come explore the distinct village of Aldershot and Plains Road where a variety of locally owned businesses are eager to serve you. It’s no secret that shopping at a local business offers a truly personal experience. The owners are passionate, knowledgeable and make the effort to get to know you, the customer. Here in Aldershot, a large portion of its business owners are also residents of the community, and they’ve made developing long-lasting customer relationships a priority. When you walk through their doors, expect a friendly greeting and welcoming atmosphere—it’s all part of the charm of this cozy corridor with the small-town feel.
The abundance of free, easy-to-access parking along Plains Road makes running your multiple errands a snap. You can forget the stress of searching for a spot and parking time limits – move at your own pace. If cycling is more your style, the freshly paved bike lanes in Aldershot’s west end offer more comfort and safety than ever before.
The Aldershot BIA turns 20 years old in 2024, and beautification efforts are underway to transform the area into a unique shopping and business district that can increasingly cater to the needs of the surrounding community.
“It is exciting to see the growth in Aldershot as Plains Road continues to evolve, change and welcome new businesses and residents,” says Andrea Dodd, Executive Director, Aldershot Village BIA. “We are thrilled to be a part of this process that will only bring more success to our current business community and welcome more to the area in the future. Explore and experience Plains Road, get to know our business community and shop Aldershot.”
Be sure to kickstart the holiday season at the Aldershot tree lighting event in November.
Fashion Retailers & Kids Clothing
DTWO Clothing Company – A clothing boutique offering a fashion-conscious collection of apparel sourced worldwide at great prices.
Isarti Luxury Menswear – Offering the latest luxurious men’s fashions, Italian-designed and made, from suits to dress shirts, casual jeans to jumpers.
Gerry Lush Clothiers – Choose from fine men’s fashions in casual, business and formal attire with a focus on Canadian brands, contemporary styles and competitive pricing.
Kid to Kid Burlington– A consignment shop for parents and kids that offers first-rate second-hand clothing, accessories and gear for kids of all ages.
Food & Drink
Ye Olde Squire Taphouse & Eatery – Classic pub food is served up in a friendly atmosphere with a menu that includes award-winning wings, classic pub entrees and more.
District Kitchen + Bar – A popular casual eatery featuring American and pub fare, craft beer and premium cocktails.
Skyway Diner– A favourite local place for breakfast, lunch and dinner offering a wide variety of menu items, including family-friendly packages.
The Olive Oil Dispensary– Choose among more than 60 extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world.
Lord Nelson – Enjoy the highest quality meats and seafood in an atmosphere of elegance along with an extensive wine list.
Turtle Doves Bakery – Indulge in delicious, gluten-free freshly-baked goods like breads, cakes, cheesecakes, cookies and desserts.
Peach Coffee Co. – A welcoming space to experience exceptional specialty coffee, baked goods and impeccable service.
The Platter Company Gourmet Market – Pick up ‘restaurant style’ prepared meals including appetizers, mains, side dishes and desserts to make entertaining easy.
Health & Wellness
Pillars of Wellness – An award-winning clinic in Burlington, offering physiotherapy, counselling, massage therapy, naturopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture, speech therapy, occupational therapy and yoga therapy
Just Tennis– Specializing in all things tennis, including shoes, apparel, racquets and accessories.
Fit for Life Physiotherapy – Services to clients experiencing musculoskeletal injuries, stroke recovery, osteoporosis management and pelvic health.
Grounded Pilates– A studio offering small group reformer and Pilates chair classes, as well as barre, mat and yoga classes.
The Fitness Firm– A full-service health and wellness club that offers multiple membership options to suit your lifestyle and goals.
Nixon Martial Arts– Provides high-quality programs in karate, fitness and leadership for both adults and kids.
Aldershot Foot Clinic – Clinic and mobile services in comprehensive foot care, treatment of ingrown toenails, corns and callouses.
Aldershot Audiology– Provides exceptional and affordable hearing healthcare in a compassionate environment.
Notable mentions
Scholars of Burlington South – Register for comprehensive tutoring for all subjects in the kindergarten to Grade 12 curriculum with flexible scheduling.
Foli– This online plant retailer offers healthy plants in cool pots for yourself or to gift, with each carefully packed and shipped across Canada.
Ruston RV – A family-run business, locally owned and operated for more than 54 years, RVs are their one and only focus.
Looney Tunes Music– Dedicated to bringing customers the best choices in music in CDs, LPs or vinyl.
Yellow Umbrella Driving School – A small class, quality instruction driving school, catering to all students including those with ADHD, anxiety, Asperger’s and higher functioning Autism.
In 1907, Robert Baden-Powell, a Lieutenant General in the British army, held a camp for boys on an island in southern England to test the ideas he’d included in a book called Scouting for Boys. About 20 boys attended, several of whom were his son’s friends. This small event would mark the beginning of a worldwide movement, with Baden-Powell’s book eventually selling more than 100 million copies.
Since Baden-Powell formed The Boys Scouts Association in 1910, millions of children and youth, ages 5 to 26, have participated in Scouts and learned about nature, the outdoors and the importance of friendship and leadership.
When Scouts first began, young girls also expressed an interest in getting involved. In response, Baden-Powell and his sister Agnes started Girl Guides in 1910. However, in 1998, Scouts became fully co-ed, and it continues to be committed to diversity and inclusivity today.
In Canada, there are more than 50,000 youth in Scouts who participate in outdoor adventure, fun experiences and community contributions, making Scouts Canada this country’s leading co-ed youth organization.
The mission of Scouts Canada is to “help develop well-rounded youth, better prepared for success in the world.” In an age of screens, Scouts offers a breath of fresh air – motivating kids to get outside and explore the real world. Sports and outdoor adventure make up a large part of the activities. They learn first aid and emergency training, and are taught about healthy living, respect for the environment and the importance of nature. Personal development is emphasized in the organization, as Scouts are encouraged to volunteer in their community.
The groups are separated by age and include Beaver Scouts (5-7); Cub Scouts (8-10); Scouts (11-14); Venturer Scouts (15-17) and Rover Scouts (18-26).
In Beaver Scouts, kids spend the bulk of their time exploring the outdoors and building social skills through nature walks, hikes, tree planting, games and crafts. Earning personal achievement badges is encouraged.
Cub Scouts are introduced to more variety, from camping and hiking to community projects and environmental stewardship programs.
Scouts hone their outdoor adventure skills with activities like mountain biking, rock climbing and lots of camping, as well as participate in unique opportunities like national or international jamborees.
Venturer Scouts begin building the knowledge and skills for career development, as well as participate in outdoor adventures, weekend events, extended hikes, leave-no-trace camping, spiritual reflection, community service and more.
Kids of any age can apply to join Scouts Canada at any time of year. Memberships are renewable on a yearly basis. To ensure all children can access the Scouts Canada experience, the No One Left Behind program provides financial subsidies to families in need.
Visit www.scouts.ca to find a Scouts group in your area.
Kerr Village may be Oakville’s best kept secret! This charming, yet eclectic, slice of Oakville is unlike any other part of town. Its one-of-a-kind character blends old, new, trendy and traditional to create a welcoming vibe for everyone.
The bustling and revitalized Kerr Street has become a favourite destination for residents and out-of-town visitors to stroll, shop local, grab a java to-go or savour a leisurely meal at a popular restaurant. A truly diverse community, its local businesses represent 39 different cultures, offering a selection of shops and restaurants to suit a wide variety of tastes and backgrounds.
Enjoy the best of fall in Kerr Village
As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, it’s an ideal time to enjoy a day or evening outside. And, Kerr Village is a perfect setting. Here, you can take in the urban street vibe, then head for a walk in nature. After all, Kerr Street is only a stone’s throw from Lake Ontario. After shopping and grabbing a bite, you can continue south, by foot, to Tannery Park where wooded trails and a boardwalk along Lake Ontario await. If you’re up for a longer stroll, continue east across the bridge on Lakeshore Road to downtown Oakville or, alternatively, turn west for a scenic walk toward Coronation Park. For an activity with less exertion (or if the weather isn’t quite so cooperative), consider a movie at the independently owned theatre, Film.ca, located a short distance from Kerr Street.
visitoakville.com
Celebrate the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids in September
Families with young children won’t want to miss the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids on Sunday, September 10 in Westwood Park (at the corner of Kerr Street and Bond Street) from noon until 6 p.m. Admission is free!
Bring the whole family to this outdoor celebration packed with live kid-friendly music, exciting hands-on activities and mouth-watering food. The entertainment line-up includes two on-stage performances of the Wiggles characters, Dorothy the dinosaur and Wags the dog at 1:45 and 3:30 p.m.
For a smashing good time, catch a performance of CRASH Rhythm at 12:30 p.m. This alternative and engaging approach to music education and exploration uses bucket drumming to tie together teamwork, creativity and fun while learning about music, composition, rhythm and drumming.
At 2:30 p.m., kids can explore more musical beats with Mystic Drumz. Its interactive performance showcases eclectic percussion instruments sourced from around the globe, linking geography to sounds, rhythms to science and laughter to learning. The closing performance (4:30 to 6 p.m.) is by teen band, Leave Those Kids Alone. The Fan Vote Winner of CBC Music Searchlight 2022 features five talented teenagers from Windsor and Detroit playing original songs, along with classic rock favourites.
Plenty of munchies and refreshments will be on offer throughout the day with food vendors that include The Mermaid, Boffo’s, Sandwich Society, Zesty Pita and La Dolce Vita. Look out for ballooning clowns, a superhero and a roaming social media photo booth.
Admission to the 4th Annual KerrFest Kids is FREE! The schedule is subject to change, so be sure to check before heading out.
New Shops in Kerr Village
Kerr Village makes supporting local easy, thanks to its incredible selection of businesses run by passionate founders. This fall, be sure to visit some of the newer additions!
This Middle Eastern restaurant serves authentic flavours from the rich culinary traditions of the region. Its mission is to provide a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Middle Eastern culture using fresh ingredients, skilled craftsmanship and impeccable service.
Enjoy delicious freshly baked muffins, including vegan, gluten-free and keto! Founder Mary’s mission is to nourish your family with healthy, handcrafted muffins. Order fresh or flash frozen to save for later. They offer local delivery and pickup, as well as catering.
Visit this clothing boutique for a selection of luxury European brands from England, Ireland, France and Scotland for men and women, representing Saint James, France; Irelands Eye, Dublin; Armorlux knit, France; Lochcarron kilts and tartans, Scotland, and more.
Enjoy coffee and community with an artfully crafted beverage and delicious bite. Sit in the interior that’s modern, yet comfy, with a retro vibe, or sip your java on the patio. Coffee travelers for larger groups are also available to order.
Choose from a variety of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, pastries, and more! There are gluten-free options, too. Cakes and baked goods can be made to order, but only a limited number of orders are taken per week. Breakfast is also available.
This team of skilled and passionate barbers is dedicated to creating the haircut that stands out, tailored to your unique style and preferences in a hip barbershop with a friendly atmosphere.
This is the destination for enthusiasts of French Country, antiques, jewelry, hand painted furniture and shabby chic home decor. Step into the “as-is” room for a unique flea market experience. Custom furniture painting and upholstery also available.
Gelato is dynamic, and the offerings in the Oakville and Burlington region are no exception. If you’re after the more traditional, Italian style gelato, we’ve got you covered; if you want a more modern take, we’ve got that too!
Beat the summer heat by sampling from the best gelato Oakville and Burlington has to offer below.
If you’re looking for authentic Italian gelato, Il Gelato di Carlotta in Oakville is the spot. With her roots in Florence, Italy, Founder Carlotta Cattani has inherited her gelato expertise from a family of traditional gelato makers. The lightness of Carlotta’s scoop belies its deeply creamy and flavourful qualities.
Gelateria Morgana balances tradition with innovation. Morgana has perfected the more conventional flavours of gelato, like chocolate and nocciola, while daring to deliciously reinvent the wheel with more novel creations like Mexican Marzipan. We’re excited to see what Gelateria Morgana scoops up next!
La Dolce Vita has an extensive range of flavour profiles on offer. With over 100 flavours, La Dolce Vita will have something for even the choosiest of gelato connoisseurs. Be sure to check them out for a family friendly experience.
Nyla’s cozy tea-room experience extends to her intimate store-front patio. With over thirty delicious flavours, Nyla’s is a great spot to slow down and cool down with a cup or cone of gelato. Open until 9:00 p.m., this trip makes a great night-cap for any date-night.
The Flavour Fox is a great option for gelato in downtown Bronte. Make no mistake, this place is NOT going to the dogs, but they do have offerings FOR dogs, including frozen yogurt treats. Sniff out Flavour Fox for a reliably good gelato experience.
Old world meets new inside Centro’s stylishly renovated Victorian manor, and their gelato is no exception. Centro Noca offers a small selection of traditionally light, flavourful, and carefully curated gelato. Their cobblestone patio and meticulous landscaping will transport you to the streets of Rome. Visit Centro Noca for an immersive gelato experience.
The owners of I Love Gelato are committed to innovation when it comes to their gelato. They visit Italy annually to keep themselves updated on the latest trends and source many of their ingredients from Italy itself. For an experience that marries the quality of the old world with a new world twist, visit I Love Gelato.
For a family-owned Gelateria experience, check out Alia’s Gelato & Cafe in Burlington. Alia’s offers a range of traditional gelato flavours and a sunny downtown patio. Kick back and enjoy the many flavours of Alia’s!
Cool off with a gelato in Lola Chocobar’s shady quadrant of Burlington’s historic Village Square. Lola offers a range of traditional gelato flavours and an intimate outdoor patio. Soak up the summer in the midst of Lola’s charming ambiance.
Authenticity reigns supreme at Crema Di Gelato. With gelato crafted fresh daily by third generation ice-cream makers, you know you’re in for a traditional experience. With no artificial flavours or colours, Crema’s experience is well suited for any gelato purist.
Did we miss a patio? Email us and let us know! Contact us here.
We’ve rounded up the best patios in Burlington. These are the perfect places to enjoy summer sips, snacks, and outdoor meals. Make the most of these short summer months by visiting our favourite patios in Burlington.
This patio’s stunning views of Lake Ontario make it a coveted spot for outdoor dining in Burlington. Their menu boasts sustainably sourced seafood and an elevated take on familiar comfort foods. Be sure to check out their freshly shucked oyster and Prosecco deal on Wednesday evenings!
Transport yourself to another place and time on Isabelle’s waterfront patio. Their mouthwatering bites of spaghetti pomodoro will have you basking in the sun on the edge of Lake Como, while their charred octopus whisks you away to the Mediterranean Sea. Whatever your destination, Isabelle’s coastal inspired dishes are not to be missed.
The patio of Rayhoon Persian Eatery is tucked away from the bustle of Burlington in the heart of historic Village Square. This patio is the perfect place to enjoy an intimate gathering with friends and family, while dining on delicious plates of Persian cuisine.
Paradiso Restaurant is another great patio to explore in Burlington’s historic Town Square. Paradiso offers an accessible menu of delicious options inspired by the European Mediterranean.
Buvette Restaurant and Wine Bar’s patio is nestled on the corner of a historic old Victorian building in Village Town Square. If you’re looking for a casual fine dining experience with great seafood, steak, and wine options, Buvette’s the spot.
If you’re looking to literally elevate your patio dining experience, check out Loondocks Restaurant’s rooftop patio. As evidenced by their patio’s herb and veggie garden, Loondocks cuisine is primarily made with fresh, local, Canadian ingredients. They also offer an extensive list of old and new world wines, cocktails, and local craft beers.
Locally owned and newly renovated in the heart of Downtown Burlington, visit their beautiful Garden Patio, tucked away underneath the trees & enjoy delicious food at this casual-upscale dining experience!
Di Mario’s Trattoria boasts authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Downtown Burlington. Witness the bustle of Burlington with a piquant plate of pasta and a glass of fine wine.
Feeling the heat? Take cover under the canopy of trees lining Pepperwood’s patio with one of their many ice-cold craft beers on tap. Next, wet your newly restored appetite with one of Pepperwood’s bistro and Italian inspired dishes.
Nothing tops off a sunny day like pizza and a frothy, cold drink. Soak up the dog days of summer on Son of a Peach’s slice of Burlington’s historic Town Square.
Harper’s little sister restaurant, Jacksons Landing, offers a rooftop patio with a casual yet refined dining experience. They have a range of craft beers, wines, and cocktails to choose from.
Looking to traverse the time space continuum this summer? Transport yourself to historic Burlington at The Poacher, Burlington’s oldest British pub. Enjoy your favourite pub classics and a rotating assortment of beers on their classic wood-decked patio.
Situated in the heart of Burlington’s Village Square, The Dickens is nothing short of iconic. Their comfortable patio is the perfect setting to catch up with old friends over a frosty beverage and a burger.
Who knew pizza and bocce ball went together so well? Add in a few cold beverages and it’s a recipe for a pretty perfect patio. Industria Pizzeria’s patio is a lively spot with great food – check it out!
The Martini House couples fine-dining cuisine with a casual and homey atmosphere. If you’re looking for a relaxed, pub-style ambiance with a more refined menu, The Martini House is the spot.
They might be known as man’s best friend, but there are many reasons dogs make great pets for all members of the family.
The Ultimate Playmate
Every child at some point probably begs for a dog. While parents may be worried about the added responsibility and expense, a dog can provide your child with endless hours of entertainment and companionship. Want to keep the kids away from screens? Taking their favourite playmate to the park for a game of fetch may just be the way.
Teach Responsibility
Taking care of a pet is a simple way to teach children the concept of responsibility – and it’s a lot more fun than washing dishes. Basic tasks, such as feeding the dog or giving the dog a bath, can help instill a sense of caring for another living being and reinforces the importance of being reliable.
Lower Stress
A dog can actually put your family in a better mood. Studies have shown dogs can have a calming effect on humans by reducing levels of cortisol (the hormone that makes us feel stressed) and by increasing oxytocin (the feel-good hormone). Dogs provide companionship to kids which can help lower anxiety. This is especially valuable to those who struggle socially with human peers.
Keep Your Family Active
Having a family pup helps improve your family’s health. All those walks around the block mean it’s not just your dog getting exercise, but you too! Just 30 minutes of walking every day can improve your cardiovascular fitness and reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
The best perk of all is the unconditional love and loyalty our dogs give us. Is it any wonder we consider them a part of the family?
Cool pups
“Dogs need to have access to shade and cool, fresh water when they are spending time outside in the summer,” says Dr. Dianna Stewart, DVM at Orchard Animal Hospital in Burlington. If your dog is panting excessively with a very wide, flat tongue hanging out that could be a sign of overheating. If overheating worsens, your dog could become weak or unsteady on their feet. Their gums may turn bright red or even bluish purple.
If your pet is exhibiting these symptoms, remove them from the heat and offer cool water immediately. “You do not want to cool too quickly, so avoid very cold water or ice,” says Stewart. For more serious symptoms of possible heat stroke such as collapse or loss of consciousness, see a veterinarian.
Prevention
Heartworm season is June to November, and preventing this potentially fatal disease is essential – especially if you spend a lot of time on trails and in fields. Flea and tick prevention is recommended year-round, but especially from spring to fall.
Hot Paws
Walking on hot pavement can cause paws to burn. If the sidewalk is hot to the touch, Stewart recommends walking on grass or trails. “If a dog’s paws are getting too hot, they often start ‘dancing’ and trying to pick their feet up as they walk,” she says. Check your pup’s feet for burns which usually look raw and may bleed.
Grooming
Certain breeds may require more grooming in the summer. “Shedding dogs may benefit from a thorough de-shedding groom at the beginning of the summer to fully remove that dense winter undercoat,” says Stewart. Dogs that are clipped regularly may enjoy being clipped short, but Stewart says not too short – skin exposure may increase the risk of sunburns.
