But seriously, no dog walks for us today. 

Today the air quality here in the Mid Atlantic is Code Red, meaning it is so poor that those with compromised health should stay indoors with windows shut. The Maryland Department of Health issued a Code Purple (I’ve never seen this one) for most of Maryland. This comes after a 3-day heat dome, trapping extremely hot temperatures at ground level both day and night. 

It feels like the apocalypse. 

I’m sure my dog, Sitka, thinks so. We have skipped her walk for a few days because the heat combined with humidity makes her miserable and the option for an early morning walk was taken off the table due to trapped high heat temps all the time. She ventures out, hoping things have changed, only to slink back to the shelter of the garage and beg to come back indoors. 

I am worried about my old/retired horses. They have running eyes and are sweat streaked in with just the slightest activity. They stay indoors with big industrial fan blowing on them most of the day and are hosed off periodically with cool water. However, no relief at night when they go out. Plus, biting flies make life extra miserable. 

Canada, our neighbor to the north, is experiencing horrible wildfires, the smoke plume from which has migrated south-east to our part of the country (and others, I’m sure). I heard the Detroit Air Quality Index (AQI) was 600, which is insane. But let’s remember those poor people in Canada who have lost everything due to these fires. We only have to deal with a few days of inconvenience. 

I feel for the wild creatures who have no refuge from the heat and smoke. I also feel for the pets who have owners who do not take proper precautions to safeguard their health. You should not be working you horse in this. You should not leave your dog outside. 

How is everyone coping? I’ve got a restless Shepsky pup and some miserable horses munching through what’s left of the hay. Anyone have some good ideas for indoor entertainment? )I know I have to finish editing my next novel, The Devil’s Luck, which is due to come out 25 October. (Up for pre-order now). Maybe the heat and smoke will keep me inside long enough to get it done! 

No White Dog Walks for a while. :)