Why do dogs lie in the sun when it's so hot? – San Antonio Express-News

Dogs can seek out patches of sunlight even on hot days because it provides relief from stiff and achy joints.
Dear Cathy,
When I let my 11-year-old long-haired Chihuahua/papillon mix outside to do his business, he will lie in the sun on hot stone until I pick him up and bring him inside. I can’t leave him out for any length of time in this heat for fear of his having a heatstroke. What makes a dog want to get so hot and not come in where it is cool?
Carol
Dear Carol,
Dogs and cats love to sunbathe and often will search for patches of sunlight in the house to “nap on.” As they age, though, they actually may seek more warmth to get relief for stiff and achy joints. While my 12-year-old dog, Buster, has always loved to sunbathe, he has wanted to be outside more in his senior years. Your dog is likely doing the same thing, which I know seems odd with our summer temperatures. 
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The good news is most dogs and cats know when they have had enough sun and will ask to be let back inside the house. But please keep a watchful eye on your senior dog. Puppies, sick pets and senior pets are much more susceptible to heatstroke than healthy adult dogs. You can sit outside with him, and when you get uncomfortable, it can be a sign for you both to go back into the house. If he insists on staying outside, check on him every 15 minutes and provide cool water and a shady place if he changes his mind. 
Dear Cathy,
The vet who took care of our parrot retired. Would you be able to give me the names of vets who specialize in exotic birds? We have raised him since he was very young. He is now in his 30s and has an extensive vocabulary. I know they have a long life span. He’s OK but has needed a vet’s care in the past (nail trims, respiratory problems, etc.). I enjoy your column every week.
Norma
Dear Norma,
I’m glad you’re lining up a vet for his future health care needs. I can’t make specific doctor recommendations, but I can help you find an avian veterinarian. The best way to do that is to visit the Association of Avian Veterinarians website (aav.org) and search for an avian veterinarian in San Antonio. You can plug in your address and decide how many miles from your location you want to travel for care. If you have problems finding a doctor, you can contact the association directly. 
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Veterinarians with primary dog and cat practices who also care for birds also will include the word “avian” on their website. An online search using the keywords “avian vet near me” should also show area vets who can take care of your bird. Please let me know if you have any problems finding one.

 
Send your pet questions, tips, and stories to [email protected]. You can follow her on Twitter at @cathymrosenthal.
 
Cathy M. Rosenthal has worked for both local animal shelters and national humane groups for more than 25 years. She also is a freelance writer for newspapers, magazines and nonprofit organizations, focusing solely on animal issues, pet behavior and the human/animal bond. Cathy is the author of several children’s books on pet care.

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