Spring weather can still feel unpredictable, but warmer days are on the horizon with promises of long, lazy afternoons and sunny getaways. Although the longer days and nice weather make it easy to get outside with your pup, they can also bring some new challenges for pups and their people. Being proactive can ensure you and your furry friend are prepared for the warmer months and keep fun on the calendar all season long.
1. Shed that winter coat
Dogs tend to get thick, dense coats to stay warm during the winter, and many breeds “blow” those coats as the weather warms. Brushing can help loosen the excess fur so it can be shed more easily while reducing the risk of matting. A professional grooming session can make this process easier. During professional grooming, the extra fur can be trimmed or removed without compromising your pup’s natural insulation. At Playful Pack Dog Daycare, we offer comprehensive grooming services that can keep your pup sleek, comfy, and free of excess fur and fluff throughout the season.
2. Apply protection
Just like you need to protect against springtime pests, so does your pup. As temperatures heat up, the bugs come out to play, bringing everything from mosquitoes to fleas and ticks, which tend to carry heartworm and Lyme disease. Talk to your vet about their recommendations for flea- and tick preventive and heartworm prevention, and check them for ticks after outings in wooded or grassy areas.
3. Guard against allergies
Springtime allergies are common in both people and pets. Common allergens include mold spores, pollen, grass, and fleas. Foods can also trigger allergic reactions. While avoiding allergens is ideal, it’s not always possible. If your pup struggles with scratching, paw-licking, or hot spots, talk to their vet about treatment options. Your dog also might benefit from more frequent grooming or topical treatments to soothe the itch.
4. Protect the paws
Your pup’s paws have a pretty important job to do. Keep them coming and going comfortably by applying pet-safe paw balm to protect and soothe. On hot days, keep your pup on grass or shaded paths, and invest in some dog booties if you must walk on hot pavement or asphalt. Whenever stepping outside, place your hand directly on the pavement before allowing your dog to step outside. If it’s too hot for your palm, it’s too hot for their paws. Bootie up!
5. Adjust your routine
On hot days, you might also need to adjust your pup’s exercise routine. Not all breeds handle the heat equally well, so watch for signs that your furry friend is overheating. Exercise your dog earlier or later in the day to avoid excess heat, and carry collapsible bowls and bottled water for when thirst strikes. Frozen fruit can make great thirst-quenching treats, too, and can be excellent training aids in the summer heat.
This is also a great time to update your pup’s microchip information and ID tag. Increased outings can mean increased opportunities for your pup to slip away. Consider adding a GPS tracker to make it easier to reunite with your dog.
Finally, prepare for summer vacations. If you’ve got travel plans, be sure to schedule your dog boarding early. Dog boarding facilities are busy during the spring and summer months as busy dog guardians plan their holidays, so you’ll want to plan and prepare your pup for the upcoming season. We recommend booking your pup’s stay early as slots fill up quickly. At Playful Pack, we’ve got everything needed to keep your dog comfortable and happy throughout their stay, including kennel-free spaces at night and daycare during the day. Our facility features rotating activities, dog-friendly equipment, and dog-loving staff, and you can check in any time you want via 24/7 webcam access. Contact us today to learn more or stop by for a free temperament test and stay for a free day of dog daycare!