The days are getting longer, the nights are shorter and spring is certainly in the air. I am reminded by this as every morning, now that the sun is rising earlier, Vinkel and Koljander are getting me out of bed earlier. They want to get up and out there, have their breakfast and play. Although I do find that by the time I am ready to go they have worked in a sneaky nap, a full tummy will do that I guess. But by the time I am ready to leave for work they storm out of the house, ready to do their doggy routine until I return back home.
Here are a few things you can do to get your dog ready for spring:
Grooming
Warmer weather means your pet will most likely be shedding a lot of their winter fur, for sleeker, thinner attire. For pet parents whose pets live inside this means a lot of hair in the house, and that hair can get everywhere! A regular bath and a brush will help a lot in eliminating extra hair and will help to keep your house clean. You can also pay a visit to your local pet groomer to get your pet washed, brushed, groomed, clipped and even have their teeth cleaned.
But be aware!
You might think that you are doing your dog a favour by shaving your pet, but you might actually be making things worse. Acting like insulation, dogs’ coats help them stay warm in the winter, but importantly, keep them from overheating in the summer. A dog’s coat has several layers that are essential to their comfort in the heat. Shaving away their natural cooling system not only leads to discomfort and overheating, but also more serious dangers, such as sunburn, heat stroke and even skin cancer. When in doubt, ask your vet and let them refer you to a professional groomer.
Beds, blankets and beyond
It’s also important to wash your pets’ beds regularly and the beginning of spring is a great time to do this. Clean out their dog houses and provide them with thinner blankets. Also make sure your pet has a cool and shady place to rest during the day, with plenty of cold and fresh water.
Tick and flea control
Ticks and fleas are on the prowl in spring, and they can carry harmful parasites. While it’s good to always keep your pets’ shots up to date and to keep them on preventative medication all year-round, using tick and flea control rinses or tablets are even more important in the warmer weather.
Fight the worms
Tapeworms, roundworms and hookworms can become more of a problem in warmer months, but one of the biggest dangers to your pets’ health is heartworms, which spread through mosquito bites. Make sure your pets are dewormed for the season.
When it really gets hot out there
Never leave your pets in a parked vehicle, as, especially in summer, it can lead to fatal heat stroke. Don’t over exercise your pet either and rather exercise them in the early mornings or the late afternoons. Keep in mind that your dog will prefer walking on soft grass rather than hot pavements as these can easily burn your dog’s paws. Pets absorb and release heat through their feet. And always remember to take some water with on your dog walks to keep them hydrated.
So here’s to a happy spring filled with lots of fun walks, swims and a barking time!
That’s it for this week, from me, Vinkel and Koljander. Paw five! Woof!
