🌊 What’s actually in the Schuylkill River

Turn That AC on This Summer

You may have thought it was already summer because it’s been so hot. Turns out, this was our third-warmest spring on record, and experts are predicting that this summer will have “above-normal temperatures.” As for rain? Above-normal precipitation is on the table, too. [WHYY]

Can We Eat the Fish in This River?

If you’re looking for more activities to add to that summer bucket list, Philly has plenty of kayaking and fishing programs on the Schuylkill River. But have you ever wondered what’s lurking below the depths of our major waterways? We dig into the types of aquatic life you can find, what’s allowed/not allowed on the river, and the challenges of keeping it safe. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

Sheriff’s Office Replaces Problematic Leadership With More Problematic Leadership

Under court orders to fix its broken system for sheriff’s sales, Sheriff Rochelle Bilal hired two new top officials to fix the system but refused to release their names. The Inquirer then identified them and learned that they both have years of personal financial troubles and have actually lost properties themselves to sheriff’s sales. For an office that has faced years of controversy without consequence, it may come as no surprise that the pair is also politically connected. [🔒 The Inquirer]

City Tavern Returns for Semiquincentennial

A seasonal pop-up will open at the historic site on June 25, featuring a menu inspired by 18th-century recipes, colonial games, and historical impersonators. The original City Tavern — which burned down and was replaced by a replica — was a popular meeting place for the Founding Fathers and their hangout during the First Continental Congress. [🔒 Philadelphia Business Journal]

Our summers are getting warmer, and our doggos aren’t slowing down any time soon. Here are some tips and tricks for safely navigating the Philly summer with your best pal.

Plan Ahead

Plan your dog’s walks and outside time before or after the day’s hottest periods. Keep a chart or guide handy to help assess how hot is too hot for your dog. On those days, limit exercise and walk to areas with plenty of shade. When the city declares a “Code Red” event during extremely hot weather, Philly dogs must be kept in a shaded area “large enough to accommodate the entire body of the dog at one time and protect it from the direct rays of the sun,” according to ACCT Philly.

And, how long is too long to keep your pup outdoors? Different breeds have different capacities.

Do a Sidewalk Spot Check

When outside, place your hand on the surface where your dog will be walking. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Try to get them to shaded paths — Philly parks generally allow leashed dogs unless you’re in a dedicated “animal-free” zone. You can also use a protective balm or doggie shoes.

Never, Ever, Leave Your Dog in the Car

Car temperatures can exceed 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, and your pet can quickly suffer a range of issues, from brain damage to suffocation. Studies have shown that cracking a window doesn’t help.

If you see a dog in a car and can’t locate the owner, the Humane Society recommends calling your local non-emergency police number or animal control. In Pennsylvania, law enforcement and animal control have civil immunity from lawsuits if they need to break into a vehicle to save an overheating pet.