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Depending on where you live, springtime weather can change by the hour. Here in the Pacific Northwest, a short dog walk can start in bright sunshine and end in a downpour. Dogs are adaptable, but you can help them stay comfortable and dry whatever the weather. Read on for tips to prep your dog for springtime.
Dress in Layers
Your dog’s natural coat is enough in temperate weather. But when the rain starts to fall, a doggy rain jacket can keep her warm and dry. The packable rain poncho pictured above comes in an array of bright colors and patterns. Best of all, it packs down into a small pouch that clips to your dog’s leash, making it perfect for tempestuous spring days.
Keep Paws Dry
Waterproof booties are a great pick for dogs who prefer to keep their toes dry in a spring shower. Jelly Wellies ($20.00) come in several bright colors to make your dog stand out on a cloudy spring day.
If your dog won’t tolerate shoes, never fear: wet walks won’t hurt them, and you can simply wipe off their paws on your way through door.
Grab a Towel
A quick-drying microfiber towel is an essential spring cleaning tool. Keep one by the back door for a quick paw-wipe on your way in from a walk, and one in the car to dry off after a romp at the park. Your dog will love this towel’s soft, snuggly warmth, and you’ll love how much water it absorbs.
Fight the Flea (and other bugs)
In many parts of the U.S., fleas are a problem through every season. But warmer weather breeds more and more bugs. If your dog isn’t on a year-round flea preventative already, now is the time to start! Speak to your vet about prescription flea preventatives like Trifexis and Revolution, which protect them from the harmful side effects of fleas and ticks.
And if you spend time hiking in the woods, be sure to check your dog all over for ticks before coming indoors.
Watch the Thermometer
Temperatures can fluctuate wildly in spring. Keep your dog comfortable and safe by watching the weather and remembering these general dog weather tips:
- Don’t leave your dog alone in the car on an ever-changing spring day. Overcast can turn sunny within minutes. When it’s 70 degrees outside, the interior of a car can reach over 100 degrees within 10 minutes.
- For rain-shy dogs, quick potty breaks in covered areas are best.
- If your dog loves spring showers, don’t limit her walk! Rain won’t hurt (but make sure you have your own umbrella or rain jacket to stay dry)
- Dry off thoroughly after a rainy walk to help your dog regulate her temperature.
- Don’t let your dog drink from puddles, which can be full of bacteria, oils, and other icky stuff.
Springtime weather may be unpredictable, but one thing is for sure: your dog loves you rain or shine.