Safety Tips to Care for Your Dogs During Stormy Weather
Dogs must go outdoors to do their business daily, whether they like the rain or not. But getting muddy and wet can mean bad news for more than your carpet or hardwood floors. Rainy weather can also affect your pet’s physical and mental health.
Whether your furry companion likes to run around in the rain or hide under the cover, they depend on you to help them get through the wet and rainy months. As a pet owner, you must ensure your doggo survives the season. Below are some tips for keeping your pup safe, happy, and healthy during treacherous weather.
Keeping Their Fur Dry
Do your best to keep your dog’s fur dry. After being outside, patting them down with a towel is always a good idea. Consider using a dog-specific umbrella or canopy to provide shelter for them when they are outside. Brush your pet’s fur regularly to remove any tangles that may trap moisture. When their fur is left damp for an extended period, it provides an environment for molds, mildew, fungi, and other bacteria to grow. Keeping your pup’s fur dry also prevents everyone from getting sick. Molds and fungi can cause significant issues for those who suffer from allergies.
Caring for Those Paws
Your pup’s paws need tender loving care, so keep them healthy. According to veterinarians, paws exposed to muddy and damp conditions are at significant risk to bacteria that cause disease and infections. To keep their paws as clean and dry as often as possible, consider the following:
- Trimming their nails to avoid them catching on surfaces and causing injury to the paw pads.
- Moisturizing their paw pads regularly to prevent them from becoming dry or cracked.
- Using paw covers or dog-specific booties to protect their paws from getting wet and muddy.
Watching for Infections
Be on the lookout for any signs of infection your pet may suffer. Some common symptoms of the disease include the following:
- Licking the same spot constantly
- Scratching or itching
- Smelly ears
Check with your veterinarian if you believe your pooch has an infection. Diseases can get worse, and some are life-threatening if left untreated.
Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to infections. Remember to keep your dog’s living area clean and free from any potential sources of bacteria. Practice good hygiene when grooming your pet and clean any cuts or scratches on your pet’s skin with a gentle antiseptic solution.
Checking Their Ears
Your pooch’s ears can potentially be another health concern. Be sure to thoroughly dry your dog’s ears, as excess moisture can lead to infections. Here’s how to check their ears for diseases:
- Look for redness, swelling, or discharge around the ear canal.
- Gently lift your pet’s ear flap and examine the inside of the ear. The skin should be a healthy pink, with no debris or excessive wax buildup.
- Check for any signs of discomfort or pain. If your pet reacts negatively to you touching or examining their ear, this may be a sign of an infection or other issue.
- Check for any signs of parasites, such as ear mites or fleas, which can cause irritation and lead to infections.
Checking your furry friend’s ears regularly for any signs of infection can help catch the problem early on and prevent it from worsening.
Providing a Warm Place
There’s nothing more inviting on a cold, wet day than a nice warm bed to lay in. Dogs spend considerable time sleeping, so naturally, they appreciate a nice bed. Add a soft, cozy blanket or cushion to their bed to keep them warm.
Keeping your puppy comfortable during cold seasons is essential to prevent health issues. If you notice any discomfort or illness, such as shivering or lethargy, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Reducing Their Stress Levels
Rainy seasons can be stressful for some dogs due to the loud sounds of thunder, the flash of lightning, and the overall environmental change. To reduce your pet’s stress level during the rainy season:
- Play calming music or white noise to help drown out the sounds of thunder and provide a soothing atmosphere for your puppy.
- Consider using natural calming products, such as pheromone sprays or essential oils, to help your pup relax. However, it’s important to consult your veterinarian before using any products on your doggy.
- Engage your pet in calming activities such as gentle massage, brushing, or playing with their favorite toys.
If your pup experiences severe anxiety during storms, consult your veterinarian about possible medications or other treatments to help your pup relax.
Giving Them Love and Attention
Giving your puppy extra love and attention during the rainy season can help them feel more comfortable and secure. Make sure to spend quality time with your canine, playing games and engaging in activities they enjoy. Dogs love physical touch, so give them extra cuddles and hugs. Treat your pup to healthy treats or make homemade treats to show them extra love and attention. This can help reduce their stress and anxiety during the rainy season.
Following these essential tips is a great way to keep your pet and everyone in your home happy and healthy.
Watch the YouTube video below from KING 5 Seattle to learn more tips on keeping your pets happy and dry during the rainy season.
Sacramento Dog Bite Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento dog bite lawyer. While dogs make great family pets, sometimes they can bite and cause serious injuries. If you or a family member has been injured by a dog, call our law firm at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for a free and friendly consultation with one of our experienced injury lawyers.
See how we have successfully helped our Sacramento and Northern California clients obtain top verdicts and settlements for their injury cases.
Photo by Vania Medina on Unsplash
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