Dogs during the warmer months

The weather is warming up fast, faster than I remember it doing before…whats up with that anyway…

This has me thinking about my dogs. They tend to pay more than us humans during these times of warm weather. Here are some tips ive discovered work in keeping my dogs happy when its hot.

I have a Miniature Poodle and a Shi-poo, so they have decent coats that need frequent bathing and trimming. This time of the year I try to keep them tripped short yet not so short that I have to worry about sunburn. Yes, pet owners, animals are also sensitive to the sun.  I know there are products out there for pets with sunscreen in it but I have yet to try any of them as I haven’t had the need yet.

Another good tip is that if you plan on starting walking your dog after all the time inside from the winter however their paws are pretty sensitive and need protected. The best bet is if they are going to be walking on sidewalks or pavement alone they do need doggie boots.  More dogs end up with blistered feet in the summer than most would realize, especially if you haven’t been walking them in the cold weather.

Swimming. This is great to cool your dogs off.  Theres nothing better than finding a good dog park with water and letting your dog swim and play in the water.  Its great exercise for them and tons of fun. Personally I love playing fetch with my boys in the water. They could spend all day chasing sticks in the water so it’s a fun time for all.

Another important factor this time of year is flea and tick control. Now, it should be used year around but for those who don’t, and im guilty of this myself. Its very important to use flea and tick control this time of year. If you don’t like using the spot on treatments there are recipes to make treats for your dogs that keep the pests away. Now I have no tried making them or giving them to my fur babies but maybe here soon I will and ill share the recipe and review it for you all.

Other than these simple tips, adding an ice cube or so to their water and little things like that are very important. Oh another HUGE tip…if you plan on walking your dog on warm days make sure and take water with you.  Last year I found a portable watering thing that you could attach a water bottle to for a few bucks last year and its super simple to use and great for making sure your pups stay hydrated.

I wish everyone and their fur kids a safe and happy spring and summer!!