Tips To Get Your Dog Ready For Spring and Summer

Springtime is here, summer is on the way, and it’s time to be spending more good times outside with your dog. But remember, your pup has been cooped up inside all winter, and he or she is likely to need a little “TLC” to be ready to enjoy the sun and the fun…

But what is it you should be doing to get your dog ready? I have put together a few tips that will help your dog be healthier, cleaner, more comfortable and happier.

How to get your dog ready for warmer weather…

1. Spring is a great time for your dog’s annual checkup. Your veterinarian can look him over to make sure he’s healthy, make sure his vaccinations are current, and give you any advice that may be important for your dog’s healthy life.
2. It’s time for the “Big Brushing” of the year, time to get rid of that winter undercoat that has been used to keep Fido warm during the colder months. This is a very important thing to do, to keep your home, furniture and clothing from being covered with hair, and to keep your dog from overheating when the temperatures begin to rise. Be sure to have the right tools for the job to do it right.
3. Clip your dog’s nails! Whether you do it yourself or you have a groomer do it – just be sure it gets done! When doggie pedicures go undone, it causes pain for your dog when he tries to walk. In a future post, I’ll write about how to clip your dog’s nails.
4. Fight off the pests! Spring and summer are the times that fleas, ticks and heartworms make their appearance, and can cause a lot of discomfort for your pooch. Ask your vet for recommendations on how keep your dog bug free.
5. Something that many dog owners don’t consider part of dog care, although it’s a major part, is making sure your yard is safe.
   1. Begin by checking your fence to make sure there aren’t any holes or escape routes.
   2. Check your flowers to make sure you don’t have any in your garden that are toxic to dog, such as tulips, ivy, lilies, daffodils and many others. If, by chance Fido should ingest something toxic, call your vet immediately.
6. Springtime is also a good time to give your pup’s bedding a spring cleaning. Over the winter, dander, fur and bacteria have built up, so use some vinegar and a mild detergent to clean them.
7. Bathe your dog on a regular basis. If you don’t have a good way to bathe your dog at home, BowWow Fun Towne has a self wash, with all the materials and supplies you’ll need for your convenience.

At BowWow Fun Towne, dogs are our business, and our friends, and we understand how important your dog is to you.