Car rides with the windows down. Long days at the parks. A little lick of ice cream. There’s no better time to show your dog the good life than summer in Cleveland. But for some dogs, that excitement can lead to sadness and uncertainty.
“Doors are opening and closing, more people are outside, there’s much more opportunity for a dog to get lost,” said Sharon Harvey, president and CEO of Cleveland Animal Protective League.
(Photo courtesy Bow Wow Beach)
As of this writing in June, there were 45 dogs up for adoption at the CAPL, with many more becoming available every day. Surrendered dogs come in through the animal cruelty investigations work they complete for Cuyahoga County. Strays are brought in from Cleveland Animal Care & Control, otherwise known as City Dogs.
In 2022, CAPL fostered out 2,300 animals through their foster program. The program allows animals who can’t be adopted right away, either due to their age or illness, to be able to enjoy a temporary home.
(Photo courtesy iStock Photos)
For families that are looking to add a new furry family member, summer grants free time to be more hands-on with their dog, according to Harvey. Ohioans can dine with their dog, following the 2018 law that allows willing restaurant owners to welcome customers and their pooches to outdoor patio areas, and Cleveland is home to dozens of great dog and dog-friendly parks. Plus, it’s much easier and more comfortable to potty train in the sunshine rather than the snow.
“Children can get more involved in the care of their dog or their family can schedule a vacation around helping their dog transition into their home,” Harvey said.
(Photo courtesy Megan Brown)
While summer might be best, Harvey notes that interested owners should adopt, “anytime you feel you are ready to add a dog to your family.”
For more info visit: clevelandapl.org
Get ahead of the weekend by signing up for our free weekly “In the CLE” newsletter — your guide to fun throughout The Land. Arriving in your inbox every Wednesday, this weekend to-do list fills you in on everything from concerts to museum exhibits — and more. Click here to subscribe.
