Spring is right around the corner and we can say goodbye to that drab cold weather and HELLO to sunshine and warmth! As the weather takes a turn for the nice, spring fever starts to hit and your pooch is starting to tell you that he is ready to get back to frolicking in the grass and hitting those hiking trails. Those winter months brought inactivity and sparse ‘fun’ trips outside for your furry friends and it’s understandable to get super excited about that 5 mile hiking trail up the road; but is your pet ready for the springtime? In this two part blog, check out these tips, tricks and places to help you and your pet get ready!

BRUSH, BRUSH, BRUSH!

You may have noticed your pets shedding a bit more than usual; with the warmer weather, they are ready to trade in their old fur coat for a lighter and more chic one! To cut down on the shedding, brush your pet’s coat with a deShedding tool and remember to be gentle with knots; brush against the grain to remove knots and to smooth out the coat. TIP: To better loosen the hair, give your pet a bath and scrub against the hair growth.

Tips for Spring Grooming:

• If you notice that your pet has a dry coat, try using a gentle pet conditioner to combat the dryness.

• Does your pet have dry and flaky skin? Use an oatmeal-based shampoo to get rid of the flakes.

• Cracked paws can be a result from the snow, ice and salt the winter months bring. Apply a moisturizing ointment (if necessary) to help the paws lock in more moisture. 

• Clean out your pets ears! The best option is to use a liquid ear cleaner and NEVER use a cotton swab in your pets ears. 

• Trim your pet’s nails! If you’re not comfortable doing them yourself, take them to a local groomer. Short nails are less likely to snag on something during walks or in the house, preventing injury to your pet. 

• REMINDER … people shampoos and conditioners are made for people, not pets!

GEAR UP!

Warm weather means fetch outside, walks and hiking adventures with your pet, but when was the last time you checked their gear? Before going out for a walk, check all leashes and harnesses to make sure they are still in good condition to safely be put on your pet. With less time outside during winter, your pets gear may have accumulated some dust and may still have some allergens from the past spring. Wash all gear and toys for a springtime pick-me-up to help your pet start the warmer weather with clean materials. Fabric toys and bedding can be placed in the washing machine while plastic toys, collars and leashes should be hand washed in hot, soapy water!

BUCKLE UP!

Warmer weather means trips, vacations and CAR RIDES! Your furry friends get super excited when they get to tag along, but let’s not forget to keep their safety in mind while having them in the car. Despite dogs loving to feel the wind on their faces, it is dangerous for them to ride in the beds of pickup trucks and to stick their heads out of moving-car windows. Flying debris and insects can cause inner ear or eye injuries and sometimes lung infections. Be careful of stopping abruptly or turning suddenly, as these can cause major injury if pets are not properly secured while riding in the car. Try a seat belt harness specifically designed for them or a crate to keep all pets safe and sound inside vehicles. 

FLEAS, TICKS AND WORMS, OH MY!

Spring brings those pesky fleas and ticks, so the warmer weather should be a signal to check in on their flea and tick prevention! If your pet is not on year round protection, now is the time to start up those medications to reduce the risk of tapeworms and Lyme Disease. Alongside their flea and tick prevention, make sure your pet is getting their monthly dose of heartworm medication as well. Heartworm medications work to kill off the larval heartworms that made it into your pets body within the past month to prevent further infection. TIP: To help remember when to administer these medications, try giving them on the first of each month and add it to a calendar!

HAVE YOU MET THE VET?

With doggy play dates, dog park trips and fetch in the park on the horizon, your dog will be spending more time around other dogs. Make sure your pets are up to date on their shots so they can be protected from infectious diseases while exploring the outdoors with other furry friends. Other animals may or may not have been properly vaccinated, so protect your pet and get them to the vet for that checkup!

CHIP IT!

Time to double check those tags on the collar and get your pet micro-chipped if they are not already. Being outside more can create opportunities for your pet to get away from you, so be smart and get them the protection they need in case they wander too far!

AVOID WEEKEND WARRIOR SYNDROME

That first nice weekend brings about the idea to pack up your pet and hit that 5 mile trail where you plan to make up for lost time aka Weekend Warrior Syndrome. BE CAREFUL! Weekend Warrior Syndrome is what happens when you don’t exercise at all during the week, then overdo your exercise on the weekend. Remember to take it easy and gradually build up your strength and stamina as well as your pets with outdoor activities. Understand that your dog needs time to adapt to outdoor activities since he has been stuck in the house for a while. TIP: Try taking early evening walks during the week to help your furry friend get back into the swing of things, then gradually add the miles slowly on the weekends to build up stamina. 

AAACHOOOOO!!!

Keep an eye out for allergies! Excessive scratching, licking or hair loss can be classic signs of allergies. Human allergies usually involve the respiratory tract, but pet allergies take the form of skin irritation or inflammation – a condition called allergic dermatitis. General symptoms in dogs and cats are:

• Extensive itching

• Red, irritated skin

• Obsessive licking

• Hair loss

• Hot spots

• Skin rash or hives

Pay attention to your dog's belly, paws, ears, face and armpit region! Consistently licking these areas could be one of your dog's allergic reaction symptoms. Cats can also be prone to pollen in the air and can sneeze more than usual due to physical irritation from pollen.

TIP: You can reduce the amount of pollen in the home by removing shoes at the door and investing in a thick welcome mat.

DID YOU SAY DIET?

Time for a diet? Winter months can bring unwanted pounds for your pet with them being less active. Spring is a good time to start planning some dog friendly snacks that will help strengthen their bones, joints and muscles. Try these snacks to help your pup shed the pounds and stay refreshed:

• Raw carrots and celery

• Cooked plain sweet potatoes

• Steamed broccoli and green beans

• Blueberries

• Bananas

• Apple slices with NO SEEDS (seeds are poisonous to dogs)

• Fresh watermelon

GET SCREENED!

Warm weather means windows open and fresh air! While doing your spring cleaning, remember to check the screens in your windows. Windows that are left open with no screens can be a hazard to your pets if they enjoy looking out; one wrong move and they can fall out of the window and land with some serious injuries. So get those screens put in so your furry friends can enjoy the fresh air safely!

STAY COOL!

Remember pets only sweat from their paws, so be mindful when they are panting; they are trying to reduce their body temperature to keep themselves cool! On very humid days or in a small space like in the car, help keep them cool by offering water or getting them into shade. BE CAREFUL WHERE THEY PUT THEIR PAWS!! When taking those walks around the neighborhood or on a trail, watch out for hot pavement – their feet are super sensitive!

AND DON’T FORGET… Spring doesn’t just happen on the weekends! Keep your pup in mind while you’re at work- Going Mutts gives you peace of mind while checking in on your dog and giving him the attention he needs! Whether it be a quick walk, some midday snuggles or a water/potty break, Going Mutts Pet Services is there for you and for your dogs – and we never forget the belly rubs!

Sources:

https://dogtime.com/dog-health/fitness/2558-spring-dog-health-tips

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/springtime-safety-tips