TROUBLESOME CRITTERS

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— Tom Ciras
Charlton, MA

Dear Tom:

The outside dog needs a snug house for protection from the elements, especially strong sun and wind. Except in very cold climates, it should not be insulated. Why? Because insulation or heating allows the humidity to build up, causing condensation to form. The condensation has two ill effects. First, it invites mold to form. Second, it chills the animal. You can minimize the formation of condensation by creating a space between the roof and walls, allowing air to circulate in and naturally gry the internal atmosphere.

There should be plenty of bedding in the house and straw is an excellent choice. It should be straw, not hay, and be changed periodically for parasite control and simple cleanliness. A combination of the two — straw and heat/moisture not only encourages mold, but fleas and intestinal parasites as well, so try to pick the driest straw you can.

It's funny how most dog houses look like our own houses (peaked roof with shingles) when in actuality many dogs love to lay on top of their homes. Thus, the roof should be flat, with a mild slope and either painted dark or covered with a dark heavy rubber or carpet. The dark colors will also absorb the natural heat of the sun and allow the animal a choice of heat with wind (roof) or heat without wind (straw-enclosed bottom) in cooler climates.

FORGET THE MATS AND THE BLANKETS:
Dry straw, changed periodically, is all most dogs need for warmth in an outside house.

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