There's a sandy path in the middle of the photograph. The shadows of trees and bushes can be seen on it. Black locust grows left of the path, oaks and beeches on the right side. In the background one can see a the path disappears and a yellow rapeseed field. On the path quite far away lays Migo, a black Labrador, and pants.

The Season of Early Morning Dog Walks

It's been hot outside for five days now – 30°C (86°F) and more.

Migo is a Labrador Retriever. This dog breed's origins can be traced back to the Canadian island of Newfoundland. Potsdam in Germany, that's where we live, is located at higher latitude than Newfoundland. Nevertheless our climate is warmer and drier here. Migo currently suffers from it. We have to be cautious not to have too long walks or he'll need to lay down somewhere at a shadowy spot, panting, staying there and trying to cool down. This happened few days ago. We were walking through the forest so that the trees would protect us from the direct sun light. But then Migo stopped anyway, looked at me with huge eyes, and laid down spread-eagle. When I continue walking Migo runs after me when I get out of sight. But I suppose this heats him even more. Only having rests helps. Back at home he immediately seeks the cold of the kitchen tiles.

So, now in late spring and during summer we have our long walks in the morning, when the night has cooled the world a little.

2008-06-02