What’s a thirsty dog to do when seeking a drink of water as it accompanies its owner during a shopping trip or jog in downtown Washington? There are no public water fountains for animals on Washington’s downtown streets.

There is relief from the summer heat. Cottage Junkies, Rachel K’s Bakery and South Market Antiques set out bowls or pans of water for man’s best friend to drink from. Anticipate those water sources to be used frequently in the coming days and weeks, especially … wait for it … during the dog days of summer in late August.

“It’s mostly for the dogs and animals that come by here,” said Landis Pinkham at Cottage Junkies in the 100 block of North Market Street, where two stainless-steel bowls hold the cooling water. “We’ve got them out for animals and people coming through that travel with their animals by boat. A lot of time, animals do get thirsty, too. That’s what they’re for.”

Pinkham said a lot of businesses, especially in small towns, provide water to customers’ pets that accompany them.

At South Market Antiques, on West Main Street, there’s more than just water available for dogs and other pets.

“We have water in front of the shop for dogs. We have a bowl inside and give (pet) treats for people that bring their dogs in,” said Pat Lewis. “We’ve been doing this since we opened here at this location.”

“There are so many people who walk their dogs downtown. We have a little sign on our door that (says) we’re pet-friendly. People can bring their dogs in,” Lewis said.

At Rachel K’s Bakery on Friday, counterman Brad Thompson placed a bowl of fresh water just outside the front door about 11:30 a.m., later than usual. “A customer brought it in (Thursday afternoon). We forgot about it (Friday) morning,” he said.

More than four-legged animals drink the water, especially at the bakery. Sit at one of the tables outside — there’s a good chance a bird or two will fly in from a nearby tree for a sip of water.