Bethany Sanjenko says dogs are more than welcome at Bookland, located on 30 Avenue.

(CHARLOTTE HELSTON / iNFOnews.ca)

VERNON - Some Vernon businesses are making it easier for dog owners to keep their furry companions by their sides, instead of at home or in hot cars.

As the weather warms up in the Okanagan, owners will undoubtedly be reminded not to leave their dogs in the car — which according to the SPCA can seriously harm and even kill a pet. Meanwhile, certain businesses are not only encouraging people to not leave dogs in the car, they’re welcoming them to bring their furry friends inside.

One such business in Vernon is Bookland, where store manager Bethany Sanjenko says dogs of all breeds and sizes are welcome.

“We’ve got a few regulars,” Sanjenko says. “We have a sign on the window saying ‘dogs welcome’ and there are at least a few every week.”

The busiest time of year for canine visitors is the summer, she says, adding the staff are all dog-lovers. The store has never had an issue with aggressive dogs or ‘accidents’ on the floor.

“Just paw prints sometimes, but that’s an easy fix,” she says.

Allowing dogs is something Bookland has done for years, and is just another way to provide good customer service, Sanjenko says.

“It’s way more convenient to bring your dog wherever you are,” she says.

Bookland isn’t the only Vernon store opening its doors to four-legged friends. Rona and Staples both confirmed they allow well-behaved dogs, but due to availability and store policy did not provide interviews.

Even in the shade with the windows open, the SPCA says temperatures can get high enough on a hot or humid day to seriously endanger your pet. According to the organization, if it’s 26 Celsius outside, it can turn to 37 C inside the car — even with the windows down — in just ten minutes, and 43 C after 20 minutes. A dog’s normal body temperature is 38 C, with cell and organ damage beginning once they reach 41 C.

It's a wise idea to call ahead if you're planning on bringing your dog on a shopping trip. Different stores will each have their own policy and expectations. 

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