O.K., so I did a little research this morning and guess what? Zaire (Congo), which is crossed by the equator, is actually a cooler place than Texas in the summer! Who knew? Mea culpa. I have to agree, even an African dog would find Texas…..especially this summer.....uncomfortably hot.
Just a thought. We.....and our animals....have become very reliant on our "modern conveniences". We "adjust" our climate rather than learning to live with it.....which is just fine, until you have a massive power failure. At which point people who have lost coping mechanisms may be at increased risk. Something as simple as running a tub full of cool water and climbing in to lower your core temperature is not considered by the person sweltering in an overheated house or apartment. (of course, on an upper floor even this simple solution may not be available to you)
Thanks to all for your input. I learned something useful.